Jitender Singh Panesar was born in Nairobi, Kenya. His grandparents had emigrated to Kenya in 1925 from Punjab, India.
He studied at City Primary School, Nairobi and Oswal Boys Secondary School, Nairobi.
He played for Sikh Union Nairobi from 1976 to 1985
He played in the Esanda Tournament in Australia in 1979 and Africa Cup of Nations in 1983 & 1985.
He represented Kenya at the Los Angeles 1984 Olympic Games. His younger brother, Manjeet was also in the Kenyan team at these Games.
He played for Ford Hockey Club in East London.
He resides in the UK.