Ashutosh Sharma lit up IPL 2025 with a breathtaking knock, smashing 66 off just 31 balls to power Delhi Capitals (DC) to an incredible victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Walking in with DC struggling at 65/5, he anchored the chase of 210 runs, sealing the win with three balls to spare.
This wasn’t the first time Ashutosh delivered under pressure. Earlier in the season, he had played a similar match-winning knock for Punjab Kings (PBKS), proving his mettle as a reliable finisher.
However, his journey to IPL stardom has been anything but easy. Just a few years ago, the 26-year-old was battling depression after being dropped unfairly by a former coach despite stellar performances.
Also Read: 4 Massive Records Virat Kohli Might Break in IPL 2025!
From Rejection to Redemption
Reports suggest that the coach in question was Chandrakant Pandit, now the head coach of Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). During his time as Madhya Pradesh’s coach, Pandit left Ashutosh out of the team, despite his impressive performances.
Ashutosh, who had been one of the most promising batters in domestic cricket, suddenly found himself isolated and demoralized.
“There was a time when I wasn’t even allowed to step onto the cricket ground,”
“I would go to the gym and then straight to my hotel room. I was sinking into depression, and no one told me what my fault was. A new coach had joined Madhya Pradesh, and despite scoring 90 off 45 balls in a trial match, I was dropped from the team.”
Despite scoring three fifties in six Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy games, he wasn’t even allowed near the team setup. “I was very depressed,” he admitted.
The Rise of a New ‘Chasemaster’
From being denied a place in his domestic team to becoming the hero of IPL 2025’s most thrilling chase, Ashutosh Sharma has come full circle. His resilience and determination have turned his career around, setting him on the path to becoming India’s next big match-winner.
With his fearless approach and ability to shine in high-pressure situations, Ashutosh might just be India’s next ‘Chasemaster’ in the making.