RCB vs CSK IPL 2026: Jitesh Sharma Says Team Focused on Process, Not Winning Streak

Chennai, meanwhile, head into this fixture without a single point from their opening two games, having suffered defeats against Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings. Adding to their troubles is the absence of veteran wicketkeeper MS Dhoni, who has been ruled out of the early phase of the tournament due to a calf injury. While Dhoni’s batting has always been situational, his leadership presence and experience on the field are qualities CSK have clearly felt the absence of in the opening rounds.

Jitesh Sharma: Focus Remains on RCB’s Own Game Plan

Ahead of the high-stakes clash, RCB wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, who has represented India in 16 T20 Internationals, spoke candidly about how the team is approaching Sunday’s contest.

The 32-year-old made it clear that RCB’s dressing room is not paying attention to CSK’s recent form or back-to-back losses.

“I think it is very simple. We are just focusing on our own process rather than thinking about what they have done in the last one week. We are just focusing on our preparation. That is it. That is the simple thing,” Jitesh said.

It is a mindset that reflects the maturity of a team that has learned to stay grounded regardless of the opposition’s situation.

Vice-Captaincy Adds a New Layer of Responsibility

Jitesh also opened up about what the vice-captaincy role means to him personally. He admitted that taking on a leadership position within the squad has pushed him to contribute more meaningfully.

“Whenever you get the responsibility, you feel grateful and privileged. I take extra effort to give something to my team. Whatever is possible, how I can contribute to the win — that gives you extra responsibility when you are in a leadership role,” he said.

His words reflect the attitude of a player who is no longer simply focused on individual performance but is invested in the collective success of the group.

The 4-0 Question: RCB Not Chasing Records

Defending champions RCB have won their last three consecutive matches against CSK, a streak that has sparked considerable excitement among fans and the local media in Bengaluru. Many are hoping for a fourth straight win to make it a complete 4-0 record in recent head-to-head encounters. Jitesh, however, was quick to put that conversation aside.

“After coming here, I came to know about the 3-0 equation. As a player, as a unit, we always focus on one game at a time rather than thinking about records. We are just trying to be present and plan what our strengths are and what their weaknesses are,” he explained.

It is a refreshingly straightforward approach that keeps the team from getting ahead of themselves, regardless of what external expectations may be.

Pitch Conditions and Scoring Expectations

The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium surface is once again expected to offer a good batting track, similar to what was seen in the previous game when Sunrisers Hyderabad posted 201 runs before RCB overhauled the target comfortably inside 16 overs.

When asked about what score he considers competitive on this pitch, Jitesh offered a balanced perspective.

“There is no particular score. It depends on the day. That is the beauty of the powerplay — it might go well and you finish on 240, or you might end up at 180 to 190. You really cannot judge beforehand,” he said.

His assessment underlines the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and suggests RCB will be ready to adapt their strategy based on how the game unfolds rather than targeting a fixed number.