Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Jitesh Sharma and Romario Shepherd spoke about their chemistry on the field, highlighting how their contrasting styles make them a dangerous pair of bowlers in the Indian Premier League (IPL). While RCB prepares for their second match against the five-time champions
Chennai Super Kings
(CSK) At the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday, the duo reflected on what makes their partnership effective.Geach emphasized the tactical advantage of their partnership, noting how their different strengths complicate the opposition’s field positions.“I feel that when we play together, the bowler can be confused. When I can use all the angles, he can hit the ball hard. So it is confusing for the bowler to put the pitch in,” he said in a video posted by RCB on X.Meanwhile, Shepherd emphasized the confidence he derives from batting alongside Geach, and credited him with creating a positive environment in the middle. “Whenever I bat with him, I feel confident because he always makes me feel like I’m the best. He also makes me feel like I can hit every ball for a six. That’s something that, you know, gives me the confidence to go out there and play my shots,” he said.Despite his aggressive approach, Jitesh admitted that matching Shepherd’s strength is no easy task. “I can’t get the strength I want. I think if I tried to get that strength, I might not be a cricketer; I might be a bodybuilder or something.”
But I think it’s very difficult to get his strength.”Shepard also praised Geach’s composure and versatility, especially in pressure situations, which helps him remain calm at the other end.“When you bat with someone like Geach, what Geach does well in the end, you know, is keep his composure and stay calm and, you know, you have all the shots. So it’s easy for him to actually go for one of his funky shots, you know, one of the scoops or something like that.
“In T20 cricket, that’s all you want,” he said.“Just take the ball out of his game plan. And you know, Geach does that very well. I don’t know, I have a lot of fun batting with him,” Shepherd added.
The duo played a crucial role in RCB’s title win last season. Jitesh scored 261 runs in 15 matches, while Shepherd made a strong impact with 151 runs in just eight matches, including a 14-ball fifty against CSK.With their complementary chemistry and styles, Jitesh and Shepherd will once again be a key component of RCB’s finishing strength this season.