Brijesh Sharma Makes IPL Debut for Rajasthan Royals

On March 30, 2026, Brijesh Sharma made his much-anticipated IPL debut for the Rajasthan Royals against the Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati. This match marked a significant milestone in Sharma’s cricketing journey, showcasing the talent emerging from Jammu and Kashmir.

Sharma, a 27-year-old right-arm medium pacer from Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, was picked up by the Rajasthan Royals for his base price of Rs 30 lakhs during the IPL 2026 auction. His selection came on the back of impressive performances in domestic cricket, particularly in the 2025 Bengal Pro T20 League, where he finished joint-fifth among the top wicket-takers with 11 wickets in just 7 matches.

Prior to his IPL debut, Sharma represented Jammu and Kashmir at the Under-19 and Under-25 levels. His journey into professional cricket was not without challenges; he initially faced financial constraints as his father worked as a labourer. To pursue better training opportunities, Sharma moved to Bengal, where he trained under coach Deepak Punia at Unique Sports Club in Delhi.

In the match against Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals won the toss and chose to bowl first, providing Sharma with an opportunity to showcase his skills on a larger stage. His rise to prominence adds to the growing list of cricketers emerging from Jammu and Kashmir, a region that has been increasingly recognized for producing talented players.

Reflecting on his journey, Sharma stated, “My journey has had its ups and downs. I learnt a great deal about discipline and things I needed to bring to play cricket at a higher level.” He also credited his father’s hard work and the support of his friends, saying, “My father’s hard work has paid off; my friends supported me financially and emotionally. They believed in me more than I did.”

As of now, Sharma’s IPL debut is a testament to his perseverance and the opportunities that exist within Indian cricket for players from smaller leagues. His performances in the IPL will be closely watched as he aims to establish himself further in the competitive landscape of professional cricket.