India's latest fast-bowling sensation, Ashok Sharma, has taken the cricket world by storm after clocking an astonishing 154.2 kmph delivery in the IPL, securing him a spot in the national team for the opening T20I against Zimbabwe.
Ashok, 24, made his international debut on Thursday in Harare, receiving his maiden India cap after a remarkable rise through domestic cricket and the IPL. He was handed the opportunity to begin his international journey alongside fellow speedster Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav, in a balanced attack comprising three seamers and one specialist spinner.
India's captain, Shreyas Iyer, won the toss and elected to field first, citing the expected bounce on the Harare surface. Speaking after the toss, Iyer explained, "We are going to bowl first. This is my first time here, so I don't know how the wicket is going to play. But looking at the practice wickets, there was a decent amount of bounce."
Ashok's journey to the national team is a story of perseverance and family sacrifice. Hailing from Rampura, a small village near Jaipur, Ashok grew up with limited cricketing opportunities. His elder brother, Akshay Sharma, who had himself played district-level cricket, put his own ambitions aside so that Ashok could continue chasing his dream.
Years of hard work eventually paid off as Ashok emerged as one of India's fastest-rising pacers during the 2025-26 domestic season. He announced himself on the national stage in the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, finishing as the tournament's highest wicket-taker with 22 wickets in just 10 matches.
Ashok's breakthrough in the IPL 2026 season was a significant moment in his career. He impressed with his raw pace and steep bounce throughout the season, claiming six wickets in just six matches. His standout moment came against Rajasthan Royals when he clocked 154.2 kmph to bowl the fastest delivery of IPL 2026, sending down a thunderbolt to Dhruv Jurel at the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Gujarat Titans secured his services for Rs 90 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction, a move that proved to be an inspired investment. Ashok's express pace has consistently troubled batters, and his inclusion in the national team is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
The opening T20I against Zimbabwe marks the beginning of Ashok's international journey, and cricket fans will be eager to see how he performs on the big stage. With his raw pace and steep bounce, Ashok is certainly one to watch in the coming matches.
Source: Yahoo Sports