Ashutosh Sharma moves to Gujarat from Railways ahead of domestic season

Ashutosh Sharma has emerged as one of the more aggressive middle-order batters on the domestic circuit in recent years. | Photo Credit: SHIV KUMAR PUSHPAKAR

Ashutosh Sharma has moved from Railways to Gujarat ahead of the upcoming domestic season, with the hard-hitting batter set to strengthen the State’s white-ball campaign.

The 27-year-old is one of three guest players signed by the Gujarat Cricket Association for the season. The other two are leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi and fast bowler Ashok Sharma, both originally from Rajasthan.

“Ashutosh has joined our team this season, and we hope his presence will bolster the team’s strengths, especially in white-ball cricket,” Gujarat Cricket Association secretary Anil Patel told Sportstar.

Ashutosh has emerged as one of the more aggressive middle-order batters on the domestic circuit in recent years. He began his senior domestic career with Madhya Pradesh before moving to Railways and has also made a name for himself in the IPL, having represented Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals.

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His ability to attack from the outset and clear the boundary regularly makes him a useful addition to Gujarat’s limited-overs set-up. He also recently had a stint with Hampshire in county cricket, adding to his experience outside Indian conditions.

As reported first by this publication, Gujarat will be coached this season by the experienced Monty Desai, who until recently was the head coach of Canada and Nepal. Desai’s international coaching experience, along with the addition of the three guest players, is expected to give Gujarat’s white-ball sides a fresh look going into the new season.

Gujarat will begin its Ranji Trophy campaign against Odisha at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.