Uncapped Indian batters shine for Punjab Kings in IPL 2024 despite the team’s early exit.
Despite Punjab Kings falling short of the playoffs in IPL 2024, young Indian batters Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma carved niches as potential match-winners with their strokeplay.
In a conversation with The Indian Express, Ashutosh recalled shifting to Indore at 11 to pursue cricket dreams. His journey has been inspiring, from hitting speedster Jasprit Bumrah for a six to making his Ranji debut.
The 26-year-old says he took the sport seriously in 2014, representing MP at the junior level before the pandemic interrupted his stint. Forced to turn out for Railways since consistency still eludes him.
Meanwhile, Shashank spoke of learning the ropes while representing Mumbai in age-group tournaments and having a strict parent as a coach. The Indore lad also credited his sister’s steadfast fandom for keeping him motivated during low phases.
Admitting to no interaction with Punjab’s think-tank over his inclusion, Ashutosh recounted his unbeaten 80 for MP, perhaps playing a role before Covid disrupted continuity.
While Punjab fell short of qualifying, these batters, through steeliness at the crease, showed promise of bigger things with experience under their belt.
