Ashutosh Sharma Optimistic About Delhi Capitals' IPL 2026 Campaign

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches, Ashutosh Sharma of the Delhi Capitals shares his optimism about the team's prospects. He emphasizes their strong preparation and winning mentality, recalling a thrilling match-winning performance from the previous season. Sharma discusses the importance of mental readiness and the supportive environment created by the team's captain and coach. With the opening match against LSG on April 1, he acknowledges the competitive nature of the league and expresses excitement for the challenges ahead. His insights into his role as a finisher and camaraderie with teammates highlight the team's dynamics as they gear up for the season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 19, 2026, 21:41 IST

Confidence Ahead of IPL 2026

Ashutosh Sharma is feeling optimistic as he prepares to represent the Delhi Capitals for a second consecutive season in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which kicks off on March 28. He expressed confidence in his team's capabilities, stating, "We are very confident about the upcoming season. Our team is well-balanced. Everyone wants to win. We are going with a winning mentality. We want to play good cricket. We want to dominate."

Mental Preparation for the Season

Discussing the team's pre-season training, Sharma mentioned, "We are preparing very well. Our camp has just started. We had 3-4 camps before. We are well prepared mentally as well. The team is well-balanced. Everyone is looking confident."

Memorable Match-Winning Performance

In the previous IPL season, Sharma made headlines with a remarkable unbeaten 31-ball 66 as an Impact Player, leading the Capitals to a thrilling one-wicket victory over the Lucknow Super Giants. Chasing a target of 210, he hit five sixes and five fours, clinching the win with a six in the final over after a challenging 65/5 situation. Reflecting on that performance, the 27-year-old said, "I was very confident. I was backing my ability. I was well prepared for that situation. I had seen a lot of situations like that in domestic cricket. I thought that I could win the match if I took the match deep, and I won the match."

Anticipation for the Opening Match

The Delhi Capitals will kick off their IPL 2026 journey against LSG on April 1 in Lucknow. When asked about the toughest team in the league, Sharma remarked, "IPL is the world's best league. All teams are tough and equal. Every match is important. We have to win every match."

Praise for Team Leadership

Sharma shared his thoughts on the team's captain and management, stating, "Our captain (Axar Patel) is very cool. He doesn't put pressure on us. Our coach is also very good. He doesn't put pressure on us. He tells us to express ourselves. He doesn't put pressure on us. We handle the situation well."

Role as a Finisher and Team Dynamics

After debuting in the IPL 2024 season with the Punjab Kings and joining the Delhi Capitals in 2025, Ashutosh has quickly established himself, scoring 393 runs in 24 IPL matches at a strike rate exceeding 180. Discussing his role, he said, "Finisher is a tough job. I enjoy playing under pressure. I always prepare for it." He also mentioned his close friendship with teammates Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, saying, "We talk a lot, I keep learning from them."