Ashutosh Sharma
Ashutosh Sharma, a dynamic right-handed batsman from Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, has rapidly ascended the ranks in Indian cricket with his aggressive and fearless batting style. Born on September 15, 1998, Sharma’s cricketing journey began at the tender age of eight when he moved to Indore to train at the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association’s residential academy. Inspired by cricketing stalwarts like Naman Ojha and Suryakumar Yadav, he developed a penchant for explosive batting, making him a formidable presence on the field.
Sharma first garnered national attention during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he shattered records by scoring a blistering 50 off just 11 balls against Arunachal Pradesh, surpassing Yuvraj Singh’s previous record. His power-hitting prowess was further highlighted in an inter-railway match, where he amassed an astonishing 200 runs off just 60 balls. These remarkable performances caught the eyes of IPL scouts, leading to his acquisition by Punjab Kings for the 2024 season.
In his debut IPL season with Punjab Kings, Sharma showcased his potential despite limited opportunities. Over 11 matches, he scored 189 runs at an impressive strike rate of 167.25, including a standout innings of 61 runs off 28 balls against Mumbai Indians. His ability to deliver rapid cameos, such as scores of 31(17) and 33*(15), underscored his capability to change the course of a game in the middle order.
Recognizing his burgeoning talent and versatility, Delhi Capitals secured Sharma for ₹3.80 crore during the IPL 2025 auction. This acquisition was preceded by a competitive bidding war, reflecting his growing value as a multifaceted player. Prior to joining Delhi Capitals, Sharma continued to demonstrate his batting prowess in domestic cricket. Notably, in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Sikkim, he blasted 75 runs off just 27 balls, including seven fours and seven sixes, at a staggering strike rate of 277.78. This innings not only led Railways to a comfortable victory but also served as a testament to his readiness for the upcoming IPL season.
Sharma’s career statistics further illustrate his growing stature in domestic cricket. In the Ranji Trophy, he has accumulated 370 runs, with a high score of 123 against Gujarat, showcasing his ability to anchor an innings. His List A career includes 297 runs, highlighted by a high score of 75 against Sikkim and a strike rate of 126.38. In T20s, he has registered seven fifties, emphasizing his match-winning capabilities in the shortest format.
As Ashutosh Sharma dons the Delhi Capitals jersey for the IPL 2025 season, fans and cricketing pundits alike are eager to witness his contributions. His aggressive batting style, coupled with his ability to perform under pressure, positions him as a valuable asset for the team. With continued development and consistent performances, Sharma is poised to make significant strides in his cricketing career, potentially becoming a mainstay in the Indian cricketing landscape.
