New Delhi, March 19 (NationPress) Ashutosh Sharma believes there hasn't been a significant change in his cricketing journey. However, the right-handed batsman is confident that visualization and consistent practice will lead to greater success as a finisher for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026, especially under pressure.

"There hasn't been much transition. I'm enjoying my cricket and my time with DC. It's been a lot of fun. The main difference is that in my first year, I was new to the team. In my second year, the expectations have risen for both the team and myself, which adds some pressure, but I relish the challenge," Ashutosh, who is from Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, shared with IANS in an exclusive interview before IPL 2026 kicks off on March 29.

Ashutosh made a mark in the IPL with impressive performances for Punjab Kings in 2024, and spent the 2025 season solidifying his reputation as a finisher with DC, accumulating 204 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 161. His journey began with an unbeaten 66 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the team DC will face in Lucknow on April 1, establishing him as a quality finisher.

He attributes that remarkable innings to a problem he recognized and resolved. "During my first year with Punjab, I struggled to finish matches, succeeding only a few times. After that season, I analyzed my performance and realized I needed improvement in certain areas. I began implementing changes in domestic matches, focusing on finishing games before returning to the dugout. When I joined Delhi, I applied those lessons there as well," he explained.

Statistical analysis highlights Ashutosh's contribution in crucial match phases. He has mainly batted in the last four overs of IPL innings, boasting a strike rate of 188 during this span—averaging a boundary every four balls and hitting 15 sixes.

His chasing statistics are particularly impressive: an average of 37.3 and a strike rate of 171, compared to 18.9 and 152 when batting first. The current pre-season camps of DC, featuring simulated match situations, alongside his domestic cricket experience with Railways, have further refined Ashutosh's finishing skills.

"Playing domestic cricket has been educational. I focused on staying until the end and applied that mindset there. We also practice finishing scenarios in our pre-season camps, simulating actual match situations that help me prepare for real matches," he mentioned.

On the mental aspect of finishing, Ashutosh emphasized the importance of visualization, a technique many players adopt. "My mental preparation involves visualizing the upcoming situation. I envision how to navigate through it, and visualization is key to my approach."

Despite his success as a finisher, Ashutosh acknowledges challenges against slow left-arm orthodox bowlers, who have dismissed him four times in six innings at a strike rate of just 75. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025/26, he scored 117 runs in six innings with a strike rate of 170, indicating that his aggressive instincts remain intact despite a few low scores.

Among the various influences at DC, Kevin Pietersen, the franchise's mentor in 2025, left a significant impact on him. "From KP, I learned the value of hard work. I asked him how he achieved success in crucial matches, and he emphasized believing in my abilities and hard work. These lessons stuck with me."

Although Pietersen will not be present for IPL 2026, Ashutosh remains unfazed. "It's a professional game—people come and go. It's a natural part of cricket," he said.

Ashutosh is also consistently mentored by former Indian cricketer Amay Khurasiya. "We discuss everything. Whenever I have doubts, I consult him about what steps I should take. We communicate regularly," he revealed.

DC had a disappointing end to the 2025 season, finishing outside the playoffs, but Ashutosh assured that the team, led by Axar Patel, is committed to delivering strong performances.

"Our preparations are progressing well. We're well-organized and focused, not dwelling on last year's outcomes. It's a fresh start, and our aim is to dominate and enjoy the game. All the young players are encouraged to express themselves on the field. That's our mindset," he stated.

Following IPL 2025, Ashutosh took an unconventional path, showcasing his passion for cricket. He played for Wigan CC in the 2025 Liverpool and District Cricket Competition, starting with a century off 70 balls after a visa mix-up caused him to arrive in England on the morning of the match.

"I love cricket immensely. I took a brief break, then went there. Although I faced flight issues, I arrived and played directly. I cherished that experience," he reminisced.

Fresh from his participation with the India 'A' team for the Rising Asia Cup and T20 World Cup warm-up games, Ashutosh still carries the memory of receiving the call-up. "Since childhood, every cricketer dreams of wearing the India jersey. That moment was among the best of my life," he expressed.

Life in the IPL can be overwhelming with ad shoots, social media responsibilities, and media engagements becoming part of the routine. Ashutosh noted that the DC management has effectively managed his commitments.

"Certainly, it can be challenging with practices and shoots overlapping. However, our management maintains a good balance. They understand that we shouldn’t dwell on these aspects for too long," he said.

When asked about what success in IPL 2026 looks like, Ashutosh reflects on the joy of finishing games and witnessing the DC dugout's jubilance. "For me, success is happiness. The joy that comes from hard work paying off is immense. Seeing everyone happy after a victory and those joyful celebrations are what I strive for in IPL 2026," he concluded.