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Delhi Capitals (DC) needed a miracle in the high-scoring run chase after losing early wickets and they got it in the form of impact player Ashutosh Sharma. From less than five per cent of chances of DC winning, Ashutosh pulled off one of the greatest wins in Indian Premier League (IPL) history as the hosts got over the line with one wicket in hand and three balls to spare. After the match, Ashutosh dedicated the innings and the 'Player of the match' to former Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shikhar Dhawan. Then, he called up the former Indian opener in DC's dressing room.
A video of Ashutosh talking to Dhawan over video call has gone viral on social media. The video was posted by DC on their official social media handles.
Ashutosh revealed that he focused on how to finish games after missing out on a few last year. He lauded young all-rounder Vipraj Nigam who contributed with a 15-ball 39 cameo.
"Took the lessons from last year. Missed out on finishing the game on a couple of occasions in the previous season. The whole year I focussed and visualised about it. Had the belief that if I play till the last over, anything can happen. Well played to Vipraj. I asked him to keep hitting. He was very calm under pressure. Want to dedicate this award to my mentor Shikhar paaji," he said.
Ashutosh, a steal deal?
Ashutosh remained unbeaten for 66 runs from 31 balls including five fours and as many sixes. This is his second IPL fifty and highest score in the tournament as well. He was roped in for Rs 3.80 crore by DC in the mega auction, a steal deal considering his exploits as an impact player down the order.
Ashutosh's debut IPL season for PBKS
In the previous season, he scored 189 runs from nine innings, averaging 27. He scored runs at a strike rate of 167.25. Uncapped batters Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh were two retained players for PBKS before the mega auction.
