'Don’t settle for India A, aim for 100 Tests': Nehra’s advice to Ashok Sharma
Young cricketer Ashok Sharma has been selected for the Indian T20I series in Zimbabwe following a strong domestic season. His journey from an IPL net bowler to an international debutant highlights the importance of persistence and mentorship from coaches like Ashish Nehra.
Why it matters
The story reflects the pathway for emerging athletes in India's highly competitive cricket ecosystem and the cultural significance of the national team cap.
JAIPUR: Before the 2026 IPL kicked off, Ashok Sharma had a modest reward in mind for his hard work: upgrading his silver chain to a gold one. But his elder brother Akshay turned him down with a challenge: earn the India cap first. Ashok didn’t give up easily. Right before leaving to play for India A in the Tri Nation A Series in Sri Lanka, he cheekily reminded his brother about the upgrade again.The answer was still a firm not yet. He was told the gold would have to wait for the official India call-up.Now, that dream has finally come full circle. With his selection for the T20I series in Zimbabwe this July, the embargo has officially been lifted.
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