The bowling quality is at its peak in the IPL, but Ashutosh batted like he belonged to this stage.
Ashutosh Sharma was among the biggest finds of IPL 2024; he excelled in the toughest role in his maiden IPL season. The bowling quality is at its peak in the IPL, but Ashutosh batted like he belonged to this stage.
He accessed unorthodox parts of the field and dismantled the best bowling attacks in the competition. Another important aspect of his batting was that Ashutosh batted in pressure situations almost every game and still managed to bring out the best.
As Punjab Kings (PBKS) decided to release him, we look at four teams who might be interested in Ashutosh Sharma during the IPL 2025 auction in this segment.
Mumbai Indians (MI) have released Tim David and Romario Shepherd, who batted in the lower order and did power hitting vs pace. Hence, they will search for players who can perform a similar role during the auction.
Generally, MI prefer using an overseas slot for this role, as visible in the previous cycle, so they will be ready to spend a good amount to find someone for this job. Ashutosh offers similar value without wasting an overseas slot and will be a long-term investment, which MI prefer in the mega auction.
Also Read: 4 Teams that will target Trent Boult at IPL 2025 Auction
Delhi Capitals (DC) have Tristan Stubbs and Axar Patel for the middle order, but since Axar’s best value is vs spin, they would want a pace-hitter for the lower order. Ashutosh does that job, and the tracks in Delhi will aid his shot-making ability.
The pitches have been flat and easy for shot-makers lately, and Ashutosh will thrive here. He will solve multiple issues of the Capitals at a relatively lower price.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) can’t use Right To Match (RTM) on Ashutosh Sharma since they have retained two uncapped players already. However, they will definitely go after him during the auction.
Ashutosh is a pace-hitter who found ample success home and away in the lower order. Hence, PBKS would want to get him back and continue with him in the upcoming cycle.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) released Abdul Samad, their lower-order batter in the previous cycle. Hence, they would require some power hitters in the lower order, and Ashutosh can do that job.
Like in Delhi, the pitches have been flat in Hyderabad and shot-making has been fluent here, which would go in Ashutosh’s favour. Further, he has shown more consistency than Abdul Samad, which would be in the mind of SRH’s think tank.
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