Ashutosh Sharma, a young cricketer from Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, has been selected by the Punjab Kings for INR 20 lakhs for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). This opportunity comes after years of hard work and dedication to the sport.
“I remember my meeting with Bangar Sir. I was 10-11 years old at the time, and I asked him to advise me on my batting stance. Now, the dream is fulfilled and I am here at Punjab Kings, and will receive coaching under him,” Ashutosh said.
Ashutosh’s journey began at a young age when he moved to Indore to train at the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association’s residential academy. Despite facing financial challenges, he never let it affect his passion for cricket. He even umpired matches to afford lunch during his early days in the sport.
“When I left home, I did not have enough money. I used to go to a camp and I started umpiring in matches to afford lunch. We were a family of limited means, and it was hard to do everything on my own so early. But I never let it affect my family about my struggles as I did not want them to worry,” he recalled.
His dedication and perseverance paid off when he scored a hundred after a rough patch in U19 cricket by punishing himself with household chores to bring discipline and remind himself of his sacrifices.
“The time spent on my own also made me the chef among my friends, and cooking became one of my favourite hobbies. My signature dish would be paneer curry and rice. I also make amazing ginger tea,” he said.
Ashutosh’s talent and hard work were further recognized when he smashed an 11-ball fifty in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy match, breaking Yuvraj Singh’s record for the fastest half-century in the shortest format of the game.
The day of the IPL auctions was tense for Ashutosh, but his confidence paid off when he was eventually picked by the Punjab Kings. The news was celebrated with fireworks, sweets, and posters in his hometown, marking a significant moment in his career.
“I stayed up with my friends till 5 AM. My phone kept ringing and eventually stopped working. Our relatives and family brought crackers and sweets. The people from the town put posters all over, celebrating that a player from the area has been selected. It was a great atmosphere. I called my coach and told him that the hard work has paid off,” he recalled.
Now, Ashutosh is focused on making the most of this opportunity in the IPL. He aims to express himself on the field and help the Punjab Kings win their first IPL trophy with his hard work and determination.
“I want to express myself. I have worked so hard to reach here. I will work even harder now so I can help Punjab Kings win their first trophy,” he said.
Ashutosh’s journey from a ball boy to an IPL player is a testament to his passion, perseverance, and dedication to the sport. His story is an inspiration to young cricketers aspiring to make it big in the world of cricket.
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