Ashutosh Sharma, a rising star in Indian cricket, is quickly becoming a household name after his spectacular performance in the IPL. In a remarkable match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on March 24, 2025, he scored an unbeaten 66 runs off just 31 balls, leading the Delhi Capitals (DC) to an improbable victory. This win was no ordinary accomplishment as DC found themselves in dire straits, reduced to 65 runs for the loss of five wickets, chasing a daunting target of 210.
Sharma's masterful innings not only showcased his batting prowess but also reflected his exceptional mental fortitude under extreme pressure. His performance has sparked widespread admiration, with many spectators and analysts praising his ability to deliver when it mattered most.
However, this thrilling chapter is just one in the growing saga of Ashutosh's cricketing career. Reflecting on his journey, Railways head coach Nikhil Doru shared insights into the early skepticism surrounding Sharma's capabilities. Initially, the selectors had great reservations about including him in the Ranji Trophy squad. Doru explained that they dismissed him by stating, "Ashutosh doesn't know how to bat. He can only hit big shots." Despite this resistance, Doru championed Sharma's inclusion, recognizing his potential as a game-changer. "I kept pushing for his selection, terming him a necessity considering his ability to emerge as a game-changer," he stated.
Despite not being picked for the opening three to four matches of the Ranji Trophy season, Ashutosh finally received his chance in a game against Gujarat in January 2024. By then, the stage was set for what would become a memorable debut. Issues arose even before the match started due to the presence of two conflicting team sheets, one including Ashutosh's name while the other did not. Doru noted that this led to further anxiety, as he had to send another player, Karn Sharma, to bat before Ashutosh while waiting for permission from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to allow him to play.
After about 15 to 20 minutes of uncertainty, permission was granted, and Ashutosh walked out to bat with the team's score reading 145 for six. What followed was an innings that left an indelible mark in the annals of Indian cricket. Ashutosh scored a remarkable 123 runs off 84 balls, hitting 12 fours and 8 sixes, significantly boosting his team's morale. Railways went on to post a total of 313 runs, eventually winning the match by a massive 184-run margin.
Ashutosh's explosive ability is underscored by his record for the fastest fifty in T20 cricket by an Indian, achieved in just 11 balls during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match against Arunachal Pradesh in October 2023. Doru described Ashutosh as someone who believes deeply in visualization, emphasizing how he focuses on picturing his success before executing it on the field. "He told me that he has visualised winning the IPL with DC this season," Doru revealed, indicating the young cricketer's ambitious mindset.
The implications of Sharma's ascent are significant for Indian cricket, as his capability to perform under pressure could be a valuable asset not just for the Delhi Capitals, but for the national team as well. As he continues to break records and showcase his talent, Ashutosh Sharma is a name that promises to become synonymous with success in Indian cricket.
As the IPL season progresses, fans and critics alike will be analyzing every stroke and strategy deployed by Sharma. His journey is both inspiring and indicative of the extraordinary talent that can emerge from rigorous dedication and belief in oneself. With the current season underway, the cricketing world will undoubtedly keep a close watch on this remarkable talent who is proving that he is much more than just a player who can hit big shots; he is a player capable of turning the tides of an entire match.
With his record-breaking performances and growing fanfare, Ashutosh Sharma is certainly a player to watch in the ongoing IPL 2025, as he aims not only to excel individually but also to help his team claim the coveted championship title.
