Jason Holder believes Ashok Sharma has the potential to go a long way and identifies him as a bowler to watch out for. Representing Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2026 season, Ashok has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting fast-bowling prospects due to his raw pace and ability to hit high speeds consistently.
Holder was particularly impressed with Sharma’s off-pace ability, highlighting his control over variations such as slower balls and yorkers. He believes that with time and experience, Sharma will develop into an even more dangerous and absolutely fast bowler.
“To see a young bowler come in and mix at 145 kmph consistently… Ashok was one of those guys who really impressed me. He’s got pace and above his pace is his skill… You see his slower balls, you see he’s able to nail the yorkers and over a period of time he’ll get experience,” Tribute as he tells PTI of his knowledge and understanding.
“YOU CAN’T TRAIN THE HEAT”
The 23-year-old pacemaker of the right arm attracted attention fastest ball of IPL 2026 after hitting 154.2 kmph against Rajasthan Royals at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Holder said Ashok has natural pace, a rare gift that cannot be taught, and praised his development skills, noting that fitness, hunger and experience will determine how far he progresses.
“I’m really excited to see his progress. I think he’s something to keep an eye on. If he stays fit and stays hungry, I think he can definitely go places. You can’t coach pace. You either have pace or you don’t and keeping him injury-free for a very long time is tough,” Holder said.
“So he’s got a natural gift to be quick, but he’s added some skill as well. So I think with more experience and knowledge of the game, I expect pretty good things from him,” Holder added.
In six matches so far, Ashok Sharma has taken six wickets at an economy rate of 10.85 with best figures of 2 for 32 in four matches against Lucknow Super Giants.
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Issued by:
sabyasachi chowdhury
Published on:
21 Apr 2026 17:45 IST
