Shivalik Sharma

Shivalik Sharma’s journey began on a more casual note. Born in Baroda on November 28, 1998, his initial forays into the sport were fueled by the familiar thrill of neighbourhood gully cricket matches. While these contests fostered a love for the game, the dream of professional cricket remained a distant prospect.

However, fate, or perhaps a keen eye for talent, intervened. Shivalik's father, captivated by the unorthodox strokes and raw potential his son displayed, recognized a diamond in the rough. He made him join the Youth Service Centre in Gujarat’s Sultanpura. This paternal observation became the catalyst, propelling Shivalik onto a path that would eventually lead him to the coveted arena of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Shivalik's talent blossomed during his youth career, leaving an indelible mark on prestigious tournaments like the Vinoo Mankad Under-19 Trophy and the Cooch Behar Under-19 Trophy. These impactful performances served as his calling card, a glimpse into the exceptional batter he was evolving into. Yet, the transition from the world of youth cricket to the more rigorous senior level proved to be a significant obstacle. Despite his undeniable talent, securing a coveted spot in the Baroda senior team remained elusive.

This phase in Shivalik's career demanded unwavering dedication and the steely resolve of a true competitor. He refused to be daunted by the initial setbacks. Instead, he channeled his focus into honing his skills, particularly his left-handed batting, the very skill that had first captivated his father's attention. While he possesses the ability to bowl right-arm leg break, it's his mastery of the willow that has truly catapulted him into the cricketing spotlight.

The year 2023 marked a pivotal shift in Shivalik's cricketing narrative. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy became the platform where he truly announced his arrival. His unwavering determination and grit at the crease were on full display as he amassed a commendable 114 runs across 10 matches. This impactful performance served as a beacon, attracting the keen eye of the Mumbai Indians. Recognizing the unpolished gem Shivalik possessed, the Mumbai Indians secured his talent at the 2024 IPL auction for INR 20 lakh.

In the Ranji Trophy 2024, the southpaw accumulated 483 runs in nine innings, including two hundreds. 

(As of March 2024)