Ashish Nehra encourages Ashok Sharma to strive for 100 Test matches instead of just settling for India A.

JAIPUR: Ashok Sharma, a promising cricketer from Rajasthan, has recently achieved a significant milestone in his career by earning a spot in the Indian T20I squad for the upcoming series in Zimbabwe. This selection marks a turning point for the 24-year-old fast bowler, who had set his sights on representing India after a successful domestic season and participation in the IPL.

Before the 2026 IPL season commenced, Ashok had a personal goal of upgrading his silver chain to gold as a reward for his hard work. However, his elder brother Akshay challenged him to earn the coveted India cap first. Undeterred, Ashok reminded Akshay of his promise just before departing for the Tri Nation A Series in Sri Lanka, but was met with a firm response: the gold chain would have to wait until he received an official call-up to the national team.

With his selection now confirmed, Ashok is prioritizing his preparation over material rewards. He expressed his commitment to honing his skills and visualizing his debut in the Indian dressing room. “Right now, my focus is strictly on preparation,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of sticking to his strengths, particularly his ability to bowl at a hard length, which he believes is crucial for extracting bounce.

Reflecting on his journey through the IPL, Ashok acknowledged the invaluable lessons learned while playing for teams like Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. Although he initially struggled to secure a place in the playing XI, he gained insights from seasoned players such as Pat Cummins and Shane Bond. A memorable conversation with Cummins about perfecting his bowling technique left a lasting impression on him, reinforcing the idea that every great bowler has a signature delivery.

After being released by Rajasthan Royals, Ashok faced a setback that motivated him to elevate his performance. He channeled his disappointment into hard work, ultimately finishing as one of the top wicket-takers in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His natural pace has improved significantly, reaching speeds of up to 150 km/h, thanks to rigorous training and a focus on fitness.

Support from senior players has also played a crucial role in his development. Ashok noted that bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Ishant Sharma have been instrumental in providing guidance during practice sessions. His recent experience with India A in Sri Lanka, although brief, allowed him to learn from the team’s bowling coach, Lakshmipathy Balaji.

Family support has been a cornerstone of Ashok's journey. His brother Akshay, who once aspired to be a cricketer himself, made sacrifices to ensure Ashok could pursue his dreams. Akshay continues to manage Ashok's expenses and remains a vital source of encouragement. With his brother's promise of a gold chain now within reach, Ashok is focused on making his mark on the international stage.