Visakhapatnam, March 24, 2025 – Delhi Capitals’ new recruit Ashutosh Sharma has once again proved his mettle as a game-changer, guiding his team to a thrilling one-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2025 season opener. The explosive batter, who played a similar match-winning knock last year for Punjab Kings, showcased his finishing prowess with a blistering 66 off 31 balls*, ensuring a dream start for Delhi in the tournament.
Delhi’s Nail-Biting Win Powered by Ashutosh’s Heroics
The high-voltage clash in Visakhapatnam saw Lucknow Super Giants setting a massive 209-run target after explosive half-centuries from Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh. In response, Delhi Capitals found themselves in deep trouble at 65/5, but Ashutosh Sharma, brought in as an Impact Player, turned the game on its head.
Despite wickets tumbling at the other end, Ashutosh held his ground, smashing five fours and five sixes, taking on Lucknow’s struggling bowling attack. His crucial 55-run partnership with Vipraj Nigam for the seventh wicket kept Delhi alive. With just one wicket in hand, Ashutosh sealed the victory in style with a six, leaving Lucknow heartbroken.
The Journey of Ashutosh Sharma: From Punjab to Delhi
The 26-year-old Ashutosh Sharma, born on September 15, 1998, in Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, has been a promising talent in domestic cricket. He first made headlines last season while playing for Punjab Kings, where he played a similar match-winning knock against Gujarat Titans. Despite his heroics, Punjab Kings did not retain him for IPL 2025, allowing Delhi Capitals to acquire him in the auction.
Early Struggles and Comeback Story
Ashutosh’s cricketing journey hasn’t been easy. Having started his career with Madhya Pradesh, he faced a setback in 2020 when veteran coach Chandrakant Pandit took charge and dropped him from the squad. Left without a team, he found solace in his childhood coach Bhupen Chauhan, who kept motivating him. Unfortunately, in 2023, Ashutosh lost his coach, a tragic moment that pushed him to make a fresh start with Railways.
Former Indian wicketkeeper Naman Ojha, whom Ashutosh idolized, played a crucial role in shaping his career. With persistence and hard work, he continued to improve, earning an IPL contract and now making headlines with his exceptional performances.
