GT, DC discuss Ashutosh Sharma trade
GT need a proven finisher and have previously offered a fast bowler in exchange for one to another franchise; LSG, too, have a surplus of pacers and are known to be looking to strengthen their batting
Even as IPL trades gathers pace ahead of the November 17 deadline for retentions and releases, a new name has emerged as a potential trade candidate. Ashutosh Sharma, currently with Delhi Capitals and formerly of Punjab Kings, is the targeted player and most probably in exchange for a fast bowler.
It is still not clear which side or player the 28-year-old right-hand batter is being swapped with. However, the general talk in the IPL is that the deal could involve a franchise that has a surplus of fast bowlers but is also looking to strengthen its batting, particularly batters who can finish games. The possibilities could include Gujarat Titans, who are seeking a finisher, and Lucknow Super Giants, who are understood to be looking to consolidate their batting.
Cricbuzz can confirm that the Shubman Gill-led Titans had approached Delhi Capitals for Ashutosh a couple of months ago but there was no immediate response from the Capitals. But the Delhi side, with a new management and new coach at the helm, could revisit that offer.
Ashutosh has a record of finishing matches for his sides from precarious positions, both for Punjab Kings in the past and Delhi Capitals more recently. He appears to have attracted the attention of Gujarat Titans, who are believed to be contemplating releasing Shahrukh Khan.
It is understood that GT had also approached another franchise for a finisher in exchange for tearaway fast bowler Ashok Sharma a few months ago, but the offer was not considered. Ashok played two T20 Internationals for India in July this year but has been out of action since.
Apart from Ashok, Gujarat have plenty of fast-bowling options, including Arshad Khan, Gurnoor Brar, Kulwant Khejroliya, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada and Ishant Sharma. LSG, too, have a formidable pace battery comprising Prince Yadav, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, Anrich Nortje, Mayank Yadav, Akash Singh and Arjun Tendulkar.
Ashutosh was bought by Delhi Capitals for INR 3.8 crore at the mega auction two years ago. He is currently representing Gujarat in domestic cricket, having switched from Madhya Pradesh earlier this year. Last season, he scored 171 runs in eight games at a strike rate of over 180.
Delhi officials were not immediately available for a comment. However, their need for pacers is understandable. They recently traded T Natarajan to Sunrisers Hyderabad and are not sure whether Mitchell Starc would show up for the season at all.
