A breakout season in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has pushed Rajasthan quick Ashok Sharma into the spotlight, and the fast bowler has now opened up on the early IPL trials that changed the course of his career.
Rajasthan pacer Ashok Sharma, currently the top wicket-taker of SMAT 2025-26, is one of the most talked-about RCB target heading into the IPL 2026 auction. With 19 wickets in seven matches at an average of 12.10, his heavy-ball attributes and ability to consistently touch the high 140s have caught the attention of several franchises. RCB, who recently conducted trials in Mumbai, were among the teams to take a close look at him.
But Ashok’s rise almost never happened. The 23-year-old had considered giving up cricket altogether in 2021 after failing to progress beyond Rajasthan’s Under-19 and Under-23 levels. A late entry into a talent-hunt programme reignited his ambitions and eventually led him into the Rajasthan Royals scouting setup.
Ashok Sharma Recalls First IPL Trials
Recalling his first major breakthrough moment, Ashok revealed a trial session at BKC in Mumbai, one that featured a dramatic over against two of world cricket’s biggest names.
“I was given the new ball straightaway, and I dismissed both Sanju bhaiyya [Sanju Samson] and Jos Buttler twice in one over,” he said on ESPNCricinfo. “That gave me the confidence that I belong at this level.”
Ashok spent two seasons inside IPL environments, first with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2023 and later with Rajasthan Royals in 2025 — but didn’t get a game. Released by RR ahead of the upcoming auction, he has used the 2025-26 domestic season to produce a strong body of work across formats. Along with his SMAT tally, he also picked up 14 wickets in his first-class debut season earlier this year.
Ashok Sharma A Potential RCB Target
His performances have placed him firmly in the conversation for IPL sides searching for an Indian fast bowler, and RCB’s interest has strengthened that narrative. With the defending champions looking for depth behind their frontline quicks, an Indian seamer in form becomes a valuable auction option.
Ashok’s journey has been shaped by limited resources, borrowed equipment, and years of uncertainty, but also by guidance from seniors like Akash Singh and inputs from established IPL players during net sessions. The growth curve has been steep, and the SMAT returns have reinforced that he is ready for the next step.
Whether RCB or another franchise secures him on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, Ashok’s message is clear: he now believes he has the skills and temperament to deliver on the IPL stage. For one of the most intriguing RCB targets in this auction pool, the next chapter could arrive very quickly.
