WATCH: Jitesh Sharma's Blitzy 38* Off 18 Against Rajasthan Royals

PBKS vs RR IPL 2022: Jitesh Sharma played an unbeaten fiery knock after being sent out to bat ahead of explosive all-rounder Liam Livingstone.

PBKS vs RR IPL 2022: With the addition of two new franchises in this season of the IPL, the performance of uncapped and unknown Indian players has increased. Each franchise's strength now lies in the hands of the youngsters they've got. 28-year old Jitesh Sharma has been a similar find for Punjab Kings, who smacked an 18-ball-38 against Rajasthan Royals to provide a good finishing touch. 

Coming in to bat at 118/3, in the 15th over, a platform was set for any batter to come & power PBKS to a good total. The Punjab management trusted the youngster and sent him out ahead of explosive all-rounder Liam Livingstone. Jitesh repaid the trust as he smacked an unbeaten 38 runs in 18 balls with 4 fours & 2 sixes.

Jitesh smacked the Purple Cap holder Yuzvendra Chahal for a mighty six in the 18th over. It is noteworthy that Chahal was the pick of the bowlers for Rajasthan Royals, picking up 4 wickets for just 28 runs in his 4 overs. Jitesh remained not out and powered Punjab Kings to a good total along with Liam Livingstone. 

Earlier, Punjab Kings captain Mayank Agarwal won the toss & opted to bat first against Rajasthan Royals in the 52nd match of IPL 2022. With the help of Jonny Bairstow's fifty and Jitesh Sharma & Liam Livingstone's finishing, Punjab Kings managed to post a total of 189/5 in 20 overs. For RR, Yuzvendra Chahal picked up 3 wickets while Prasidh Krishna & Ravichandran Ashwin managed 1 wicket each. This match is being played at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.