Some cricketers dream of scoring centuries, while others aim to be the best bowlers. But Ashutosh Sharma? His goal for IPL 2025 was simple: finish games.
And that’s exactly what he focused on—visualizing himself in pressure situations and preparing to take his team across the finish line.
He recognized that modern-day cricket, whether in domestic leagues or international tournaments, demands players who can handle pressure. It’s not just about hitting big shots; it’s about knowing when to rotate the strike, absorb pressure, and wait for the right moments to attack.
So, how did he train for this demanding role?
The Power of Visualization and Mental Toughness
Cricket is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Ashutosh didn’t just work on his shots or fitness—he actively trained his mind.
He spent a lot of time visualizing different match situations:
- What if his team needed 10 runs per over in the last five overs?
- What if he had to bat with the tailenders?
- How would he handle a situation where the team required 30 off 12 balls?
By putting himself in these scenarios mentally, he became better prepared to execute them in real matches. Many great finishers, from MS Dhoni to Michael Bevan, have spoken about the power of visualization. Ashutosh followed the same mantra, reinforcing his belief that he could handle any situation thrown at him.
The Role of Domestic Cricket in His Growth
Performing under pressure doesn’t come overnight. Every cricketer improves by playing more matches, gaining experience, and learning from failures. Domestic cricket plays a crucial role in shaping players for bigger stages, and Ashutosh has made the most of it.
He has been a standout performer in multiple tournaments, proving that his focus on finishing matches is paying off. Domestic leagues allow young talents to:
- Develop temperament by playing competitive matches.
- Handle different pitch conditions.
- Learn pressure management by facing quality bowlers.
Every game offers a lesson, whether in victory or defeat. Ashutosh has used these opportunities to refine his skills.
Learning from the Great Finishers
Ashutosh doesn’t just focus on his technique—he also studies some of the greatest finishers in cricket. Players like MS Dhoni, AB de Villiers, and Michael Bevan have shaped the art of finishing, and Ashutosh looks up to them.
What do these players have in common?
- They stay calm even in the tensest moments.
- They take the game deep and never panic.
- They know when to attack and when to play it safe.
Ashutosh is trying to inculcate these qualities into his gameplay. He understands that the key is not just to hit big sixes but to handle pressure smartly and be adaptable.
“I have always admired how great finishers remain cool under pressure,” he mentioned in an interview. “I try to bring the same calmness into my game.”
Fitness and Skill Development: The Other Half of the Equation
Mental toughness alone isn’t enough. Finishing games requires raw power, endurance, and skill. Over the past year, Ashutosh has worked on:
- Power-hitting drills to improve his ability to clear the boundary.
- Running between the wickets to ensure he can convert ones into twos.
- Strength training to improve his endurance and batting longevity.
With the modern game becoming more intense, players like Ashutosh need to keep up both physically and mentally. His commitment to training shows that while talent is important, it’s discipline and preparation that truly make a difference.
What’s Next for Ashutosh Sharma?
Ashutosh’s journey is far from over. While he has made great strides in domestic cricket, his ultimate goal would be to represent India on the biggest stage.
With T20 cricket becoming more fast-paced and unpredictable, players who can finish games are highly valuable. If he continues his current form and mindset, he could soon find himself in bigger tournaments, maybe even donning the national jersey someday.
The best finishers don’t just score runs; they absorb pressure, make smart decisions, and take their team home when it matters most. Ashutosh Sharma is well on his way to becoming one of them.
Final Thoughts: The Rise of a Future Finisher
Cricket has always been about adapting and evolving. The role of a finisher is more crucial now than ever before, and Ashutosh Sharma has dedicated an entire year to perfecting this craft. His discipline, visualization techniques, and commitment to skill development make him a player to watch out for.
If you love watching nerve-wracking chases and last-over thrillers, keep an eye on Ashutosh. He might just be the next big name in finishing games for India!’