Ashutosh Sharma made a sensational debut for Delhi Capitals, leading them to a stunning victory against Lucknow Super Giants in their IPL season opener. His performance proved that his exploits with Punjab Kings last season were no fluke. Coming in under pressure, he turned the game around and played a match-winning knock.
His childhood coach and former India cricketer Amar Khurasiya has now advocated for Ashutosh’s promotion in the batting order and called for his inclusion in India’s T20 squad.
Amar Khurasiya’s High Praise and Call for Promotion
Khurasiya highlighted Ashutosh’s mental toughness and ability to handle pressure, stating that his remarkable performances are not surprising.
“He has always had a lot of resilience. He can absorb pressure, something he has done in the past—not just in the IPL but in other games and in life as well. He is a determined player, always striving to improve his game,” he said.
Khurasiya further suggested that Delhi Capitals should utilize Ashutosh’s attacking style in the Powerplay. “If Delhi wants to win their maiden title, they must send him to open the innings and dominate the Powerplay. He is the most difficult player to handle and stop in the Powerplay. Axar should try him. He is a nightmare for bowlers.”
Additionally, he emphasized Ashutosh’s versatility as a batter. “Ashutosh can hook the ball. He can hook it off the front foot. He can pull off the front foot. And he does it against bowlers clocking 140 kmph. He can play the backfoot punch. He can cut. He has all the shots in the book. Plus, he has innovated so many others.”
Fast-Tracking Ashutosh into India’s T20 Squad
Khurasiya strongly advocated for Ashutosh’s inclusion in the national team, citing his game-changing ability. “He must play for India. Can you believe a batter turned the game around when his team was struggling at 113 for 6? How many players have done that?” He further highlighted Ashutosh’s fearless approach against top-quality bowling.
“On a track where the ball was holding up, he took on Ravi Bishnoi—an India international and one of the country’s best spinners. And that too, on a challenging pitch. This guy should be playing for India in T20s. He should be a straight pick. An amazing talent. You need to identify such players early and not make them wait.”
Ashutosh’s impact last season was also significant, scoring 189 runs at a strike rate of 167.26 for PBKS. Despite his contributions, he was released, while Shashank Singh was retained. Delhi Capitals picked him up in the mega auction, and he has already justified their faith. In DC’s latest match, he played a heroic knock, scoring an unbeaten 66 off 31 balls, leading his team to victory in the final over with a six. Given his immense talent, Khurasiya insists that India must recognize his potential and give him an opportunity in the T20 setup.
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