As the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction approaches, a plethora of Indian and overseas cricketers eagerly await their fate. Among them is Ashutosh Sharma, a 26-year-old middle-order batter who made a significant impact in the 2024 IPL season with Punjab Kings.
After being picked at his base price of ₹20 lakh, Ashutosh seized the opportunity and showcased his daring and inventive strokeplay. Batting predominantly in the slog overs, he contributed 189 runs in 11 matches at a remarkable strike rate of 167.26.
Despite his impressive performance, Ashutosh was not retained by Punjab Kings, a decision that he accepts with equanimity. “I didn’t think much about whether I was retained or not. It is not in my hands,” he said. “Wherever I go, I will be happy as long as I just play cricket.”
Ashutosh’s journey to the IPL has been marked by perseverance and determination. After not getting enough opportunities for Madhya Pradesh in domestic cricket, he moved to Railways, where he finally found his footing.
Reflecting on his IPL experience, Ashutosh highlights the invaluable lessons he learned. “I have learned a lot of things. A lot of legends play in the IPL. I have learned by observing how they perform on a big stage,” he said. “I used to get to bat in tough situations. The biggest lesson was how to handle those tough situations and how to stay calm and believe in yourself.”
As the mega auction looms, Ashutosh remains optimistic about his prospects. “I am excited about the auction. I am hoping to get picked by a team that believes in me and gives me the opportunity to showcase my skills,” he said.
With his talent and determination, Ashutosh Sharma is poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming IPL season. Whether he returns to Punjab Kings or finds a new home, his journey is a testament to the transformative power of the IPL and the opportunities it provides to aspiring cricketers.
