Ashutosh Sharma faced an unexpected setback last October when Punjab Kings released him prior to the mega auction, despite his impressive performances during the 2024 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, he quickly moved past this disappointment and focused on his strengths—seeing the ball, hitting it, and finishing matches. Joining Delhi Capitals, Ashutosh showcased his T20 batting prowess with a remarkable innings that led Delhi to a thrilling one-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants.

Delhi found themselves in a challenging position while chasing a target of 210, having collapsed to 65 for five after Faf du Plessis was dismissed for 29 in his debut match for the team. As an impact substitute, Ashutosh took charge and played a pivotal role in rescuing the team from a dire situation, successfully completing the chase with three balls remaining in Vizag. With 22 runs needed from the final two overs and six runs required off the last six balls with just one wicket left, Ashutosh remained composed and hit the decisive six.

Following his match-winning shot, a jubilant Ashutosh dropped to one knee and performed a 'switch hit' gesture in honor of the newly appointed mentor, Kevin Pietersen, while enthusiastically signaling towards the dugout to capture his attention. Meanwhile, the former England star was overjoyed, celebrating the thrilling IPL encounter by embracing his fellow franchise members before congratulating the standout player of the match.

'Took lessons from last year'

For Ashutosh, "belief" in himself was the key to fighting till the end, even when all signs pointed to the possibility that his efforts would fail.

"I learned from the last year because there were a few games where I couldn't finish the game, so I have been focusing on finishing games, even in domestic cricket. I have a lot of belief in myself that if I play till the last over and the last ball, anything can happen," he said after winning the Player of the Match award.

You just have to stay calm, believe, and think about what shots you can play that you have practised, so that's what I did today," he added.

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