Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) keeper-prone Jitesh Sharma after revealing all his times it has sparked a new debate among cricket fans Indian Premier League (IPL) XI on the eve of the 2026 season. shared via Crictracker Instagram support, Jitesh’s selection has some of the most popular performers in IPL history. However, the most talked about moment has been the former RCB captain’s absence Virat Kohlione of the league’s most prolific scorers.
Jitesh Sharma named all time IPL XI
Top and middle alignment star
Jitesh’s chosen XI reflects a clear preference for match-winners who have consistently influenced games over several IPL seasons. At the top of the order he chose Rohit Sharma along with the former Deccan Chargers and Kings XI Punjab legend Adam Gilchrist (2069 runs). The combination combines Rohit’s calm leadership and clutch performance with Gilchrist’s explosive intent on the power play. Rohit is the second highest run-scorer of all time in IPL with 7046 runs in 272 matches.
The middle order is equally huge, with features Suryakumar Yadav (4311 runs)widely acclaimed for redefining modern T20 batting and the legendary South African all-rounder. Jacques Kallis (2427 runs and 65 wickets)his consistency with both bat and ball made him indispensable during his IPL stint.
Finishes full of power with iconic names
For the finishing role, Jitesh chose a trio that shaped IPL history in different ways. Hardik Pandya (2749 runs and 78 wickets) while bringing explosive batting and seam bowling MS Dhoni (5439 runs) a nod to his unparalleled legacy as a goalkeeper and leader, captain and finisher.
The shot is to complement the firepower AB de Villiers (5162 runs)his ability to dominate bowlers in any situation made him one of the most feared batsmen the league has ever seen.
A balanced bowling attack with proven performers
Jitesh’s bowling unit focuses on control, variation and big match temperament. Comprehensive Axar Patel (1916 runs and 128 wickets) while the mystery spinner provides balance and reliability in the middle overs Varun Chakraborty (100 wickets) adds unpredictability.
Leads a fast attack Jasprit Bumrah (183 wickets)widely regarded as the deadliest IPL fast bowler of his generation. Australia is fast Josh Hazlewood (57 wickets) completes the XI by offering bounce, discipline and consistency in high-pressure games.
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No place for Virat Kohli
Kohli’s exclusion of Jitesh from the all-time IPL XI came as a big surprise as Kohli is the highest run-scorer in the history of the league. Over the years, Kohli has been one of the most consistent performers in the IPL, combining longevity with match-winning impact at the top of the order. His record-breaking 2016 season, leading RCB and his ability to anchor as well as pace the batting made him the defining figure of the tournament. Given his height and statistical dominance, many fans expected Kohli to be an automatic pick, so his absence has led to widespread debate and conflicting opinions on social media. Notably, Kohli is the only player to cross the 8,000-run mark in the IPL, scoring 8,661 runs in 267 games with 8 hundreds and 63 half-centuries.
Jitesh Sharma’s all-time IPL XI:
Rohit Sharma, Adam Gilchrist, Suryakumar Yadav, Jacques Kallis, Hardik Pandya, MS Dhoni, AB de Villiers, Axar Patel, Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood
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