As the lights dim on the pre-season camps and the roar of the IPL 2026 season approaches, one name is buzzing in the Delhi Capitals (DC) dugout: Ashutosh Sharma. After a breakout stint with Punjab Kings and a solid 2025 campaign with Delhi, the 27-year-old finisher is no longer just a "young prospect." He is now a vital cog in Axar Patel’s blue army.

In an exclusive sit-down, Ashutosh opened up about his evolution, the pressure of being a finisher, and how two of India’s most seasoned pros—KL Rahul and Axar Patel—have completely redefined his approach to the game.

The "Finisher" Mindset: Calm Over Chaos

Being a designated finisher at number 6 or 7 is perhaps the most thankless job in T20 cricket. You often walk in when the required rate is climbing or the top order has crumbled. Yet, Ashutosh remains remarkably unfazed.

"I don't feel the pressure when I am in the middle," Ashutosh says with a confidence that belies his years. "I believe in my ability and my hard work. Lotus365 Blue This season, I haven't tried to develop five new shots. It’s about perfecting the game I already have."

The KL Rahul & Axar Patel Effect

The 2026 season sees a more structured Delhi Capitals side, bolstered by the presence of KL Rahul. For Ashutosh, having Rahul and Axar in the same dressing room has been a masterclass in temperament.

1. Mentorship from KL Rahul

KL Rahul, known for his technical prowess and ability to anchor or accelerate, has been a sounding board for Ashutosh.

"Playing alongside KL Rahul has helped me grow a lot. I’ve learned how he approaches the game, especially how he handles pressure situations. His experience is something young players like me can really benefit from."

2. The Clarity of Captain Axar

Axar Patel, who took over the captaincy in 2025, has brought a sense of "calm and clarity" to the squad. Despite narrowly missing the playoffs last year, the message from the skipper has remained consistent.

"Axar leads with clarity. After we were eliminated last season, his message was simple: learn from the mistakes, prepare better, and come back stronger. That mindset is what we are carrying into 2026."

Lessons from the "Naughty vs. Innocent" Dynamic

Beyond the tactical discussions, there’s a light-hearted camaraderie building in the DC camp. Axar recently joked that KL Rahul is the "most innocent boy" in the team, while Ashutosh is the "most naughty." It’s this relaxed environment that Ashutosh credits for his ability to express himself on the field.

What to Expect in IPL 2026?

Ashutosh’s numbers speak for themselves. With a strike rate hovering around 188 in the final four overs, he is statistically one of the most dangerous hitters in the league. For the upcoming season, his goals are team-oriented:

• Role: Returning as the primary finisher at No. 6 or 7.

• Strategy: Utilizing visualization and match-simulation drills from the pre-season camps.

• Ambition: Winning matches for DC rather than chasing personal milestones.

"My mental preparation involves visualizing the situation coming my way," he explains. "I see the bowler, the field, and how I’ll get the team out of that spot. The key is visualization."

The Road Ahead

Delhi Capitals kick off their campaign soon, and with a balanced squad featuring the likes of Mitchell Starc, David Miller, and Kuldeep Yadav, the expectations are sky-high. If Ashutosh Sharma can channel the "calmness" of Rahul and the "clarity" of Axar, the elusive maiden title might finally find its way to Delhi.

Fans, keep your eyes on the final five overs—the Ashutosh Sharma show is just getting started.