Even though the Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced another disappointing loss in the IPL 2024, with their top-order crumbling once again, Ashutosh Sharma’s remarkable batting performance against the Mumbai Indians truly stole the show and captured the hearts of everyone watching.
Throughout the 193-run chase against the Mumbai Indians, the Punjab Kings faced numerous setbacks. They found themselves at 77/6 at one stage, seemingly down and out each time. Yet, they refused to give up. Despite the odds, they mounted comebacks repeatedly.
First, there was a brief partnership between Harpreet Singh Bhatia and Shashank Singh, followed by another between Shashank and Ashustoh Sharma. However, it was the partnership between Ashutosh and Harpreet Brar that truly rattled the Mumbai Indians.
Together, they added 57 runs in just 30 balls for the 8th wicket, not only reviving PBKS’ hopes but also putting them in a strong position. Shashank Singh also deserves credit for his contribution of 41 runs off 25 balls, which kept PBKS’ required rate manageable despite the loss of wickets.
Ashutosh’s performance was particularly remarkable, smashing 61 runs off 28 balls with seven sixes. Despite his efforts, the Kings ultimately fell short by 9 runs at the new PCA Stadium in Mullanpur.
Ashutosh’s celebration upon reaching his maiden IPL half-century was noteworthy. When asked about it in the post-match conference, he explained that his gestures were dedicated to Sanjay Bangar, the Head of Cricket Development, for providing him with the opportunity to showcase his batting skills.
“The celebrations were for Sanjay Bangar Sir. I am working a lot under him and he keeps guiding me. He has given me a chance. I also wanted to thank the Punjab team for showing faith in me – our Head Coach Trevor Bayliss, Ashish (Kapoor) paaji, Shikhar (Dhawan) paaji who have believed in me,” he told reporters in the post-match press conference.
Ashutosh also acknowledged Sanjay Bangar for advising him that he shouldn’t rely solely on power-hitting and instead focus on playing traditional cricket shots.
“Sanjay (Bangar) Sir has taught me that I am not a slogger and that I play cricketing shots and I need to focus on that. This small statement has become a big one for me. I am following the same and that has changed my game. The shots I play are all cricketing shots,” he added.
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