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Former Indian middle-order batsman Yashpal Sharma, who was part of the iconic Kapil Dev-led World Cup-winning squad, unfortunately, left the cricketing world after suffering a cardiac arrest at 66. Survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son, many remember Yashpal for his determination and contributions to the field.
Starting his cricketing journey, Yashpal Sharma first made waves in 1972 when he scored 260 runs for Punjab schools against Jammu & Kashmir schools. Within two short years, his consistent performances paved his way into the state and North Zone teams, clinching the Vizzy Trophy.
The highlight of his early career was undoubtedly his impressive score of 173 for the North Zone against the South in the Duleep Trophy. This inning brought him to the brink of a national team spot. And soon, his brilliant 99 in the Irani Trophy secured him a place in the team for the Pakistan tour, marking his ODI debut in 1978.
Yashpal Sharma stats during the England tour in 1979 are worth mentioning. He played in three out of four Test matches post the World Cup, accumulating 884 runs at a commendable average of 58.93. His career saw both highs and lows, with notable innings like his maiden Test century against Australia and his highest first-class score of 201*, contrasting with phases where he was dropped from the team. Yet, every time he was sidelined, he made strong comebacks, like his 140-run knock against England in Chennai after his recall.
His role in the 1983 World Cup was pivotal for India. He was the top scorer with scores like 89 against the West Indies and 61 against England in the semi-final, reinforcing Yashpal Sharma stats as significant contributors to India's triumph.
Upon returning to his homeland, Yashpal Sharma faced significant challenges on the field, particularly against the visiting Pakistani team. His prowess, however, shone brightly during a three-day match for North Zone against the West Indians in Amritsar, where he impressively hit the legendary Viv Richards for four back-to-back sixes. A couple of subsequent underwhelming performances in the international arena marked the end of his illustrious playing career. Following this, in the next ODI match against England, Sharma showed sparks of his skill, especially in a game where he scored more than ten runs.
In a move that surprised many, Sharma transitioned from Punjab to Haryana in the 1987-88 season. He further extended his cricket journey with Railways for another two years.
After retirement from active cricket, Sharma donned the hat of an umpire and made significant contributions as a selector for the Indian national cricket team.
Amidst the backdrop of the Chappell–Ganguly controversy, Yashpal Sharma took up the responsibilities of India's national cricket selector from 2003 to 2006. During a turbulent phase in Indian cricket from 2005 to 2007, he stood by then-captain Sourav Ganguly, especially during Ganguly's disputes with coach Greg Chappell. His unwavering support led to his removal from the selection committee in 2005, right before the home series against Sri Lanka.
Sharma's dedication to Indian cricket remained undeterred. He was reappointed as a selector in 2008, serving till 2011. Under his watchful eye during this tenure, India clinched the 2011 Cricket World Cup. Subsequently, Sharma imparted his cricketing wisdom as the Uttar Pradesh Ranji Team coach. In 2014, he took on the leadership role as the head of Delhi's cricket advisory committee.
FAQs:
Who was Yashpal Sharma?
Yashpal Sharma was a former Indian middle-order batsman and a crucial member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning team.
At what age did Yashpal Sharma pass away?
Yashpal Sharma age at the time of his passing was 66.
What are some notable Yashpal Sharma stats?
Yashpal Sharma stats include top-scoring with 89 against the West Indies and 61 against England during the 1983 World Cup.
