Is Ashutosh Sharma the best finisher of IPL 2024?

Ashutosh Sharma’s electrifying performance against the Mumbai Indians has been the talk of the IPL 2024. Batting at number eight for the Punjab Kings, Ashutosh unleashed a remarkable 61 runs from just 28 balls in a critical situation where his team was struggling at 111 for 7. His dynamic innings nearly altered the game’s outcome, and despite PBKS falling short by nine runs in their chase of 193, his effort was nothing short of spectacular.

Entering the crease under immense pressure, Ashutosh demonstrated both nerve and skill. He hammered the MI bowlers with seven sixes and two fours, reviving PBKS’s hopes in the match. This performance marked his first half-century in the IPL, which he achieved in just 23 balls, making it a memorable debut fifty.

Is Ashutosh Sharma the best finisher of IPL 2024?

Before this game, Ashutosh had already shown signs of his finishing abilities in a match against the Gujarat Titans, where he scored a quickfire 31 from 16 balls. His consistent high strike rate, which soared to 205.26 after the match against MI, along with his aggregate of 156 runs, suggests he might be the solution to PBKS’s late-innings challenges.

Despite the team’s loss, Ashutosh Sharma’s heroic innings has solidified his reputation as a formidable finisher, possibly the best in IPL 2024 thus far. His ability to perform under pressure and turn games around has not only made him an invaluable player for Punjab Kings but has also sparked debates about his standing as the top finisher in the tournament.

Ranji Trophy and SMA Trophy of Ashutosh Sharma

Ashutosh Sharma has made notable contributions in the Ranji Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, showcasing his cricketing skills across various formats.

In the 2023/24 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Ashutosh Sharma particularly stood out by breaking the record for the fastest half-century in the tournament’s history, a record previously held by Yuvraj Singh. He achieved this milestone in just 11 balls during a match against Arunachal Pradesh. This performance included eight sixes and several fours, demonstrating his ability for power-hitting under pressure.

On the other hand, precise statistical details for Ashutosh Sharma’s performances in the Ranji Trophy are harder to pinpoint from the available data. However, it’s clear from his overall impact in domestic cricket, including performances in other formats like the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, that he is a valuable player capable of significant contributions.