The IPL 2026 auction threw up a surprise when Gujarat Titans splurged ₹9 million on young pacer Ashok Sharma, a name that suddenly set social media buzzing. Fans are already calling him “more dangerous than Umran Malik” — but what made GT go that far?
Let’s break it down 👇
🔥 Raw Pace That Turns Heads
Ashok Sharma’s biggest weapon is sheer speed. Clocking deliveries at 150 kmph, he belongs to the rare club of Indian bowlers who can consistently hit extreme pace. Gujarat Titans have always valued impact fast bowlers, and Ashok fits that template perfectly.
Express pace + bounce = instant X-factor
📊 Explosive Domestic Numbers
Playing domestic cricket for Rajasthan, Ashok had a breakout season in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy:
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🏟️ Matches: 8
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🎯 Wickets: 20
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⚡ Strike rate among the best in the tournament
These numbers show he’s not just fast — he’s effective under pressure, especially in T20 conditions.
🔁 Why Rajasthan Royals Let Him Go
Ashok was earlier picked up by Rajasthan Royals in 2025 for ₹3 million, but limited opportunities meant he couldn’t showcase his full potential. With a packed pace attack, RR released him — a move that Gujarat Titans were quick to capitalize on.
Sometimes, talent needs the right environment 🌱
