Ashutosh Sharma relishing role as finisher for Delhi Capitals in IPL

New Delhi: Delhi Capitals batsman Ashutosh Sharma credited his team Delhi Capitals' crucial seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur to collective effort, describing his own knock as especially satisfying in a winning cause.

“Whenever the team wins and you are not out, it always feels like your best innings,” he said, reflecting on his match-winning performance.

Reiterating his role in the side, Sharma emphasised his comfort as a finisher, a position he believes allows him to thrive under pressure.

“The team has trusted me in these situations, and I enjoy those moments. As long as I am at the crease, I feel I can win the game for my team,” he noted.

Speaking about his record against Rajasthan Royals, Sharma downplayed any special significance but admitted he enjoys batting against them, having contributed to wins in several past encounters.

Looking ahead, the Delhi Capitals batter stressed the importance of staying grounded.

“Every day is a new day. We will go in with a fresh mindset and focus on one match at a time, rather than thinking about revenge,” he said.

On the challenge of chasing a daunting total of 226 (RR had made 225/6 in 20 overs), Sharma acknowledged the difficulty but pointed out the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket.

“It is always a big score, but games in this format usually go till the end,” he explained.

He also praised the pitch conditions, calling it “a really good wicket for batting” where the ball came on nicely.

Sharma highlighted the crucial role of the opening partnership, noting that strong starts in the powerplay often dictate the course of T20 matches.

Delhi Capitals’ strategy to dismiss the opposition openers early proved effective, he revealed.

“They have been doing well, so that was our plan — and it worked,” he said.

Describing the win as a morale booster, Sharma added that victories significantly lift the team environment and confidence. He also observed the growing dominance of batting in T20 cricket, stating that matches are increasingly decided by which side bats better.

Finally, Sharma credited the bowling unit for making a decisive impact.

“They have pace and experience, and picking early wickets was very important,” he said, underlining the all-round effort behind the team’s success.

For the record, KL Rahul scored 75 off 40 balls (6x4s, 5x6s) to help Delhi Capitals reach the 226-run target in 19.1 overs. Pathum Nissanka hit 62 off 33 balls (6x4s, 3x6s).  

Tags : Cricket, KL Rahul, Ashutosh Sharma, IPL, Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals