Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow

Lucknow, Mar 25: Faf du Plessis is not easily impressed. The veteran cricketer, who has played all over the world, has left others in awe with his fitness and skill. But on Monday night, even he was amazed by Ashutosh Sharma’s fearless batting on a tricky pitch.

Speaking in a sideline interview, du Plessis highlighted the incredible power of Indian batters. "It wasn't an easy pitch to bat on, but the two boys at the back end just the way they came in and effortlessly hit boundaries unbelievable," he said.

Though Vipraj Nigam had his moments, the night belonged to Ashutosh. After an impressive yet unfinished IPL 2023 with Punjab Kings, the Madhya Pradesh batter ensured he finished the job this time for Delhi Capitals against Lucknow Super Giants.

Reflecting on his growth, Ashutosh said, "Last year, I brought my team close in a few matches but couldn’t finish. I worked the entire year on that aspect, visualizing match situations and focusing on finishing games. That’s why I could do it on such a big stage."

His self-belief was evident in his game awareness, even in stealing crucial singles. His instinct to take charge, his perfect timing, and his clean hitting under pressure made all the difference.

Despite tricky spin conditions that troubled others, Ashutosh stood firm, waiting for his moment. In the last over, as he stood at the non-striker's end, he remained calm. "If he takes a single, I will hit a six," he thought. And that’s exactly what he did sealing a thrilling finish.

Sometimes, luck plays a role, but there’s no substitute for perseverance. Ashutosh Sharma proved that yet again, turning potential into performance on the grand IPL stage.