Ashutosh Sharma signs with Hampshire for One-Day Cup

Indian cricketer Ashutosh Sharma has signed with Hampshire to play in England's domestic One-Day Cup, which begins on July 21. The 27-year-old batting all-rounder, who plays for the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League, will join the county side for the 50-over competition.

Hampshire confirmed the signing on July 20, ahead of their tournament opener against Yorkshire in Scarborough on Tuesday. The move is facilitated by a shared ownership link, as the GMR Group co-owns both the Delhi Capitals and Hampshire.

Sharma is known for his explosive batting, holding the record for the fastest T20 half-century by an Indian, achieved in just 11 balls for Railways in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In a statement, Hampshire's Director of Cricket Giles White said the club was pleased to secure Sharma, describing him as a player of great potential who has performed to a high standard recently in the IPL. White added that the club looks forward to welcoming him as they aim to improve on their runner-up finish from last season.

The upcoming stint marks a return to English cricket for Sharma. He previously played for Middlesex Titans in 2017, represented Gravesend during the 2022 and 2023...