In the high-stakes world of T20 cricket, few players rise as rapidly as Ashutosh Sharma. A name that is creating ripples in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, Ashutosh has cemented his place as a vital cog in the Delhi Capitals (DC) squad. Known for his explosive batting, composure under pressure, and ability to finish games, the 26-year-old from Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, is proving to be a future star.
His journey—from humble beginnings to breaking domestic records and now dominating in the IPL—makes for an inspiring story. Let’s dive into the journey, achievements, and impact of Ashutosh Sharma, who is quickly becoming one of the most exciting cricketers in India.
Early Life and Cricketing Beginnings
Born on September 15, 1998, in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, Ashutosh hails from a middle-class family. His father, Ram Babu Sharma, worked as a compounder in a government hospital, while his mother managed the household. Despite financial constraints, Ashutosh’s passion for cricket was evident from a young age.
At just eight years old, Ashutosh moved to Indore to join the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association’s (MPCA) residential academy—a decision that would shape his future. He trained under the guidance of former Indian cricketer Amay Khurasiya, who honed his natural talent and aggressive batting style. Inspired by players like Suryakumar Yadav and Naman Ojha, Ashutosh dreamt of playing at the highest level.
However, his journey was anything but smooth. Despite showing promise in age-group cricket, he faced financial struggles, lack of proper equipment, and logistical challenges. Yet, with perseverance and family support, he kept pushing forward.
Domestic Cricket Breakthrough: The Fastest Fifty in Indian T20 History
Ashutosh Sharma’s professional career began when he debuted for Madhya Pradesh in the 2017-18 Zonal T20 League on January 12, 2018. He later made his List A debut in the 2019-20 Vijay Hazare Trophy, but his career took an unexpected turn when coach Chandrakant Pandit took charge of MP cricket. Despite his potential, Ashutosh found himself sidelined without clear reasons.
Switching to Railways: The Game-Changer
Undeterred, Ashutosh made a bold move to Railways, and it turned out to be the best decision of his career. In 2023, during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), he made history by smashing an 11-ball fifty against Arunachal Pradesh—the fastest fifty by an Indian in T20 cricket. This feat surpassed Yuvraj Singh’s iconic 12-ball fifty in the 2007 T20 World Cup.
His incredible tournament continued as he played explosive innings, including:
✅ 45 off 14 balls vs Saurashtra
✅ 43 off 14 balls vs Andhra Pradesh
This blistering power-hitting and ability to rescue his team from tough situations caught the attention of IPL franchises.
Ashutosh Sharma’s First-Class Success in Ranji Trophy
In 2024, Ashutosh made his Ranji Trophy debut for Railways, marking his arrival in red-ball cricket. He scored a remarkable 123 against Gujarat, proving that his talent was not limited to the shorter formats.
His domestic record across formats:
📌 T20s: 182.50 strike rate, 7 fifties
📌 List A: 297 runs (Highest: 75 vs Sikkim)
📌 First-Class: 370+ runs (Maiden century against Gujarat)
These performances made him one of the most sought-after power-hitters in India.
IPL Journey: From Punjab Kings to Delhi Capitals
2024: Punjab Kings Take a Chance
Ashutosh’s IPL journey began in 2024, when Punjab Kings (PBKS) picked him up for INR 20 lakhs. Though opportunities were limited, he made a mark with his finishing skills.
Key IPL 2024 stats:
- Matches: 11
- Runs: 189
- Strike Rate: 167.25
- Best Knock: 61 off 28 balls vs Mumbai Indians
Despite his impressive performances, Punjab Kings didn’t retain him, leading to an intense bidding war at the IPL 2025 mega auction.
2025: Delhi Capitals Recognize the Talent
Delhi Capitals (DC) saw Ashutosh’s potential and secured him for INR 3.8 crores, outbidding Punjab Kings. For DC, this was a steal deal—a proven finisher at a relatively low price.
IPL 2025: The Emergence of a Finisher
Ashutosh Sharma proved his worth immediately. On March 24, 2025, in a thrilling match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), he played a:
🔥 66 off 31 balls*
🔥 5 fours, 5 sixes
🔥 Came in at 7 for 3 while chasing 210
🔥 Won the match for DC with 3 balls to spare
Alongside debutant Vipraj Nigam (39 off 15 balls), Ashutosh stunned LSG and scripted a comeback for the ages.
Cricket experts hailed him as:
✔️ “The new MS Dhoni-style finisher”
✔️ “DC’s X-Factor for IPL 2025”
His ability to handle pressure, pace an innings, and finish games makes him one of IPL’s most dangerous batters this season.
Playing Style and Strengths
Batting Approach
✅ Explosive Power-Hitter: Can clear boundaries at will
✅ Versatile Stroke-Play: Plays lofted drives, pull shots, and ramps
✅ Quick Accelerator: Can switch gears instantly
Tactical Value in T20s
🔹 Impact Player: Can bat at No. 5 or 6 and finish games
🔹 Fearless Against Pace & Spin: Handles both with ease
🔹 Big-Match Temperament: Steps up in crunch situations
Future Prospects: Is an India Call-Up on the Horizon?
At 26 years old, Ashutosh is entering his prime. Given his performances, he could be:
📌 A strong contender for India’s T20I squad
📌 A future IPL MVP candidate
📌 A key player in Delhi Capitals’ maiden IPL title chase
If he continues his IPL 2025 form, a call-up for India’s 2025 T20 World Cup squad might not be far away!
Final Thoughts: Ashutosh Sharma – The Name to Watch
Ashutosh Sharma’s story is a perfect blend of talent, hard work, and resilience. From breaking domestic records to dominating the IPL, he’s proving that dreams from small towns can turn into big realities.
For Delhi Capitals fans, he is a game-changer and a potential match-winner in IPL 2025. Whether he’s smashing sixes or chasing down big totals, Ashutosh is here to stay!
🔥 Keep an eye on him—Indian cricket’s next superstar is rising! – Diara Bhumi News
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