Ashutosh Sharma, a promising batter for Punjab Kings and Railways, recently opened up about his journey in the world of cricket. He highlighted his maiden first-class century in the Ranji Trophy, a milestone achieved with a special bat gifted to him by Shikhar Dhawan.
The 25-year-old shared a heartwarming anecdote about his first encounter with Dhawan during the IPL 2024 pre-season camp in Mumbai. “The best thing was when I met him for the first time… The first time he watched my batting, he gave me a bat. I made my maiden first-class (Ranji) hundred with that bat.” This gesture was not just a kind act but also a symbol of the faith Dhawan had in Ashutosh’s abilities.
Dhawan’s guidance extended beyond that initial meeting. He provided valuable advice before Ashutosh’s first IPL match against Gujarat Titans, urging him to stay calm and believe in himself. “He was sitting behind and told me: ‘I know you will do it. You will finish the game, will win it for the team. This cricket is the same as domestic cricket. Just calm your nerves,’” Ashutosh recalled.
The young batsman, known for his ability to finish games, attributes much of his growth to Dhawan’s mentorship. He revealed that Dhawan taught him techniques like visualization and manifestation, emphasizing the power of positive thinking. He also learned valuable lessons from watching Dhawan and other experienced players handle pressure situations, especially in the crucial final overs of a match.
Ashutosh’s partnership with Shashank Singh in the death overs was a highlight of the last IPL season. He credited Shashank for boosting his confidence and providing motivation during tense matches. However, the defeat to Mumbai Indians in a close encounter continues to haunt him. Despite a valiant 61-run knock, Ashutosh felt the weight of not being able to see his team through to victory.
Beyond the IPL, Ashutosh’s ambitions are focused on the Ranji Trophy. He expressed his desire to win the coveted trophy for Railways. He’s also determined to continue improving his skills, drawing inspiration from the words of Sanjay Bangar, the Head of Cricket Development at Punjab Kings, who encouraged him to believe in his abilities despite being labeled a “slogger.”
Ashutosh Sharma’s story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of mentorship. As he continues to strive for success in the world of cricket, he carries with him the valuable lessons learned from seasoned players like Shikhar Dhawan, Shashank Singh, and Sanjay Bangar. The future looks bright for this talented young batsman.
