Who is Ashok Sharma? One of the best Indian fast bowlers in the IPL 2026 auction pool
Ahead of the upcoming IPL 2026 mini-auction, one name on the scouting list of every franchise is that of young Rajasthan fast bowler Ashok Sharma, who has dominated the domestic circuit this season. By recently becoming the leading wicket-taker in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26, Ashok has established himself as one of the most promising Indian fast bowlers in the auction pool.
Their performances in the 2025-26 domestic season have been impressive. The 23-year-old, playing his first season, has led Rajasthan's bowling attack brilliantly. In the league stage of the SMAT, Ashok took 19 wickets in seven matches, finishing as the top wicket-taker with two four-wicket hauls and two three-wicket hauls. His best figures of 4/16 against Uttarakhand demonstrated his ability to take advantage of conditions and trouble the batsmen. This extraordinary form has made Ashok one of the most coveted uncapped fast bowlers in the IPL 2026 auction in Abu Dhabi.
Ashok has not made his debut in IPL yet
Ashok, meanwhile, comes from a simple farming family in Rampura near Jaipur, and he almost quit cricket in 2021 after repeatedly failing to progress beyond the Rajasthan Under-23 level. While pursuing his BA degree and preparing for a government job, he came across the Red Bull Speedster Talent Hunt, which completely changed his life.
Despite registration being closed, Ashok convinces the organizers to let him bowl. Out of 250 participants, he kept clearing round after round, consistently running at speeds of 136 to 140 kilometers per hour, and eventually reached the final five. His performances there caught the attention of former India fast bowler Pankaj Singh as well as Rajasthan Royals scouts Dishant Yagnik and Zubin Bharucha.
Before being signed for the IPL, he spent time as a net bowler for RR. His first contract came with KKR, who picked him up in 2022 for Rs 55 lakh. Last year, RR signed him for Rs 30 lakh. However, he did not get a match with any franchise.
RCB conducted trials with Ashok
In particular, conversations with Pat Cummins at KKR helped him identify his biggest strength of bowling hard lengths at pace. Additionally, the guidance from seniors like Sandeep Sharma, Dhruv Jurel and Yashasvi Jaiswal helped him refine his plans and become a more complete bowler.
In the current SMAT season, Ashok has consistently clocked 140 to 145 kph, using bounce and tough lengths to demolish top domestic batting units. His skill set has increased his value significantly. Teams desperate for Indian pace depth have already trialled him, including defending champions Royal Challengers Bangalore. Notably, they have set their base price for the mini-auction at Rs 30 lakh.
Get every cricket update! Follow us,
Leave a Reply