‘My dream came true’: Emotional Ashok Sharma dedicates India debut to elder brother Akshay

Ashok Sharma gets his India cap from Sunil Joshi. (Photo Credit: BCCI) NEW DELHI: India fast bowler Ashok Sharma described his international debut as a “dream come true” after receiving his first India cap ahead of the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare on Thursday, dedicating the emotional milestone to his elder brother whose sacrifice helped shape his cricketing journey.The 24-year-old Rajasthan pacer was presented with his India cap by bowling coach Sunil Joshi before the toss, capping a remarkable rise from domestic cricket to the international stage. Although Ashok finished with figures of 0/29 in four overs, India secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Overcome with emotion after the cap presentation, Ashok reflected on the years of hard work that finally paid off.“It’s very special. The thing I worked hard for has finally come true today. It’s a dream. It’s still a dream sir, whatever it was. Even now it’s a dream that I wore the India cap and my dream came true,” he said.The young pacer then revealed the person he most wanted to honor.“I dedicate this moment to my older brother,” he added.

A brother’s sacrifice that changed everything

Ashok’s story is one of perseverance and family sacrifice. Growing up in Rampura, a small village near Jaipur, he shared a passion for cricket with his elder brother Akshay Sharma, who also played the game. However, financial constraints meant that the family could not afford to support both sons in cricket.Akshay made the difficult decision to put his own ambitions on hold so that Ashok could participate in the Under-16 Inter-District Trials. This selfless act became a turning point in Ashok’s career.A few years later, the youngster who once struggled for opportunities has become India’s latest fast-bowling prospect.

India’s Ashok Sharma bowls while Zimbabwean batsman Dion Myers looks on. (AP photo)

Laxman’s special pre-debut message

Before presenting the Indian cap, VVS head coach Laxman reminded Ashok of the importance of representing the country.“We know that Ashok will be making his international debut and we have discussed that it is a matter of great honour,” he said.Laxman also acknowledged the efforts behind the success.“Representing the country, all your hard work and all your performances have been rewarded with this opportunity,” he added.

From the feel of IPL pace to the colors of India

Ashoka’s rise has been rapid over the past year.After finishing as the leading wicket-taker in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26 with 22 wickets, he earned an IPL contract with Gujarat Titans, where he made headlines by hitting 154.2 kmph – the fastest delivery of IPL 2026.Earlier in his journey, he almost retired from cricket before a chance appearance at the Red Bull Speedster competition opened the door for him to become the Rajasthan Royals net bowler, eventually paving the way for his domestic breakthrough.Although he lost wicketless on debut against Zimbabwe, Ashok kept hitting lively pace and displayed the attributes that earned him national selection.