IPL 2025: Ashutosh Sharma Honors Shikhar Dhawan with POTM Award, Receives Heartfelt Video Call

Key Takeaways

Ashutosh Sharma scored 66 not out to win the match.
His POTM award was dedicated to mentor Shikhar Dhawan.
Dhawan's mentorship significantly influenced Ashutosh's growth.
DC achieved their highest successful run chase in IPL history.
Vipraj played a key role with a quick 15-ball 39.

Vishakhapatnam, March 25 (NationPress) After steering the Delhi Capitals to a thrilling one-wicket victory over the Lucknow Super Giants with his remarkable innings of 66 not out, Ashutosh Sharma dedicated his 'Player of the Match' accolade to his mentor and former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan.

The moment became even more memorable for Ashutosh as he received a special video call from Dhawan, which was shared on Delhi Capitals' social media and quickly went viral.

"He was genuinely thrilled. Love you paaji," Ashutosh expressed in a video posted by DC.

Dhawan and Ashutosh had previously played together at Punjab Kings (PBKS) last season, before Dhawan announced his retirement from cricket. Earlier this year, the veteran cricketer stepped away from all formats of the game, having been a pivotal mentor to Ashutosh during their tenure at PBKS.

The ex-India opener, celebrated for his leadership and poise, significantly impacted Ashutosh's development as a cricketer. Dhawan's mentorship transcended the Punjab Kings framework, positively influencing the careers of numerous young athletes.

"I learned from last year. I missed finishing games on a couple of occasions last season. This entire year, I focused and visualized my goals. I believed that if I could bat until the last over, anything was possible. Kudos to Vipraj, I told him to keep hitting, and he remained calm under pressure. I want to dedicate this award to my mentor, Shikhar Paaji," Ashutosh said upon receiving the 'Player of the Match' title.

After DC captain Axar Patel won the toss and opted to field first, LSG openers Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh capitalized on the powerplay, while stellar overs from Mitchell Starc in the death overs helped DC limit LSG to 209/8.

In pursuit of 210, Ashutosh, who came on as an Impact Substitute, delivered a pivotal knock, scoring an unbeaten 66 off 31 balls, leading DC to their highest successful run chase in IPL history. Additionally, the 20-year-old Vipraj contributed a rapid 15-ball 39, crucially boosting the innings.