New Delhi: Indian fast bowler Ashok Sharma, who made his debut for the Indian national team ahead of the first T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare on Thursday, described his international debut as a “dream come true” and dedicated the emotional milestone to his elder brother, whose sacrifices helped shape his cricketing career.The 24-year-old Rajasthan pacer was handed his India cap by the bowling coach Sunil Joshi before the throw ended a remarkable rise from domestic cricket to the international stage. Although Ashok ended up with figures of 0/29 in four overs, India eased to seven wins in the three-match series to take a 1-0 lead. After the presentation of the hat, Ashok was overcome with emotion as he reflected on how his years of hard work had finally paid off.“It’s very special. Something that I worked hard for and hopefully will come true today. It was a dream. It’s still a dream till now, sir, whatever it is. Even now, it’s a dream for me to don the India cap and my dream has come true,” he said.The young pacer then revealed who he wanted to pay tribute to on the bridge.“I dedicate this moment to my brother,” he added.
Brother’s sacrifice changed everything
Ashok’s story is one of perseverance and family sacrifice. Growing up in Rampura, a small village near Jaipur, he shared a passion for cricket like his elder brother Akshay Sharma, who also played cricket. However, financial constraints meant the family could not support their two sons in cricket.Akshay took the tough decision to give up his ambition so that Ashok could participate in the inter-district under-16 trials. This selfless act became a turning point in Ashok’s career.Years later, the youngster who once struggled for opportunities is now India’s latest fast bowling prospect.
India’s Ashok Sharma bowls as Zimbabwe batsman Dion Myers looks on. (AP Photo)
Laxman’s special message before his debut
Before making his debut for the Indian team, the stand-in head coach VVS Laxman Ashok was reminded of the importance of representing the country.“We knew Ashok was going to make his international debut and we discussed it being a great honour,” he said.Laxman also acknowledged the hard work behind this achievement.He added: “Representing the national team, all your hard work and all your performances are rewarded with this opportunity.”
From IPL Rhythm to Indian Color
Ashok has risen rapidly over the past year.After becoming the leading wicket-taker with 22 wickets in the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he earned an IPL contract with the Gujarat Titans, where he made headlines with a speed of 154.2 kmph – the fastest time in the 2026 IPL.Early in his career, he almost gave up on cricket until a chance appearance in a Red Bull Speedster race opened the door for him to become a cricketer. rajasthan royals Nets bowler, who eventually paved the way for his breakthrough in the country.Although Ashok did not take a wicket on his debut against Zimbabwe, he kept up a brisk pace and displayed the traits that earned him national selection.
