Jitesh Sharma, the wicketkeeper-batter for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has revealed an emotional reason why he did not play in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The 32-year-old shared that his father had passed away just days before India's campaign began. Jitesh shared that being left out of the squad meant he could spend the final days of his father's life by his side. Though he was initially disappointed after learning he would not be playing, Jitesh now feels grateful he could be with his family during a tough time. Speaking to PTI Videos, Jitesh said that he knew his father needed him more during this period. Jitesh said: "When I heard the news, I was a little disappointed. I am also a human, so I did feel sad initially. But my family and friends supported me a lot and that sad phase became short. My father fell ill and passed away on February 1, and I was with him for seven days." He added: "Later I realised my dad needed me more than the World Cup. After that, I have no regrets. I am not angry or anything. I am grateful to God that I could be with him and take care of him in his final days." Also Read | MS Dhoni Not in Playing XI? CSK CEO Drops Bombshell Ahead of IPL 2026 Why Jitesh Sharma Missed India's T20 World Cup Squad Jitesh Sharma was considered one of India's backup wicketkeepers before the tournament got underway. However, he was dropped from the final squad due to Ishan Kishan's sensational form. Sanju Samson was the first-choice keeper for India, and team management preferred Kishan to be the backup for Sanju. Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir led the decision. In the absence of Jitesh, Samson and Kishan played an instrumental role in India winning the title. Jitesh said it was a completely different experience to watch the tournament unfold from home. He said: "I enjoyed watching the World Cup from home, which is a very different and more stressful feeling than playing. I'm really happy for the boys – they fulfilled the vision of the coach, captain and the team since the Asia Cup. They fulfilled their promise. They really worked hard towards this goal." Also Read | How to Book IPL 2026 Tickets: Expected Sale Dates, Price Details and Membership Benefits Jitesh Begins Preparations for IPL 2026 with RCB Now that the World Cup is over, Jitesh has begun preparations for the new IPL season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Jitesh Sharma played a pivotal role in RCB's historic first IPL title triumph last year. He amassed 261 runs from 11 games at a stunning strike rate of 176.35, playing the role of a finisher to perfection. Jitesh shared that preparations for the new season have already commenced for RCB. He said: "Preparation-wise, I would like to say that preparations are good. There was a small camp recently, and everyone is looking sharp." Jitesh added: "Our CEO said last year, after winning the trophy, that we are not defending; we are chasing the trophy. So, I think that's a very big statement from him because while defending, you are defensive, but when it comes to chasing, you will always be attacking." RCB will face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their IPL 2026 campaign opener on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.