Yashpal Sharma was regarded as one of the most reliable middle-order batsmen of the Indian cricket team in the late 1970s and 1980s. He was renowned for his tenacity and temperament, and his ability to perform under pressure. His contribution to India winning the 1983 Cricket World Cup was significant. Even though he was usually overlooked in many of the games of which he played, Yashpal Sharma’s contributions to the cricketing history of India can never be measured. This article will examine Yashpal Sharma Cricketer, from his biography to his career and family, and their death, in detail.
Who is Yashpal Sharma (Cricketer)?
Yashpal Sharma was a former Indian cricketer who played in Test matches and One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for India. He was known for his batting, running, and ability to keep his head in difficult times. Yashpal was a disciplined and committed athlete. He came to represent the hard work and dedication of the era’s India cricket team.
Yashpal Sharma Cricketer Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Yashpal Sharma |
| Date of Birth | August 11, 1954 |
| Place of Birth | Ludhiana, Punjab, India |
| Date of Death | July 13, 2021 |
| Age (at the time of death) | 66 years |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Role | Middle-order Batsman |
| Batting Style | Right-handed |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm medium |
| Domestic Teams | Punjab, Haryana, and Railways |
| International Career Span | 1979 – 1983 |
Yashpal Sharma Cricketer Early Life and Education
Yashpal Sharma was born in Ludhiana, Punjab, where he developed a love for cricket as a child. His talent was recognized early by local selectors, who made him a star in the domestic cricket circuit. While pursuing his cricketing ambitions, Sharma also balanced his education, playing for Punjab at the Ranji Trophy. After a steady stream of performances, such as Sharma’s contributions with the bat, he earned a spot on the Indian national team.
Yashpal Sharma’s Cricket Career
Domestic Career
Prior to his international debut, he was a force to be reckoned with in India’s domestic circuit. He represented Punjab, Haryana, and Railways, and was lauded for his determined and aggressive batting. His record in the Ranji Trophy made him one of the reliable players in the late 1970s and 1980s.
International Debut
Yashpal Sharma’s One-Day International (ODI) debut was against England on June 13, 1979, soon followed by his Test debut, also against England, on August 2, 1979, at Lord’s. He made an impression relatively quickly with his steady batting and fearless style.
Highlights of Career
- Played for India in 37 Test matches and accumulated a total of 1,606 runs at an average of 33.45.
- Played for India in 42 ODIs, garnering a total of 883 runs, with a highest of 89 not out.
- Part of the 1983 World Cup-winning team, and was India’s second-highest run-scorer in that series
- Shining light was 89 runs scored against the West Indies in the opening game of the World Cup, which started the momentum for India’s World Cup run.
Role in 1983 Cricket World Cup
Yashpal Sharma’s World Cup performances in 1983 were some of the finest of his career. His innings of 89 in the finals against the West Indies and his fighting 61 against England in the semi finals set India on the path to the finals. Sharma’s impressive strokeplay, against some of the most hostile bowlers in the world, would win him respect from his teammates and fans alike.
He became known as the “Crisis Man” of the Indian team, whenever the team was in some trouble, Yashpal’s steady presence and composed head would settle the innings back down.
After Retirement – Coach and Selector
Following his playing career in professional cricket, Yashpal Sharma continued to contribute to Indian cricket by performing roles as a national selector and coach. As a selector for the Indian team during the 2000s, he was instrumental in the development of young talent. He was also heavily involved with cricket in the domestic and grassroots levels.
Yashpal Sharma Cricketer Family
Yashpal Sharma’s marital partner was Renu Sharma. They shared three children together.
- Son: Chirag Sharma -A son Chirag was studying in London at the time of his fathers demise.
- Daughter: Pooja Sharma
- Daughter: Preeti Sharma
Yashpal’s father was Prem Chand Sharma and mother was Pratibha Sharma.
He had a brother Ghanshyam Sharma, who was also older.
Yashpal Sharma Cricketer Awards and Achievements
- World Cup Winner 1983 (India)
- Arjuna Award (posthumously awarded for his contribution to cricket)
- Instrumental in India’s early cricket successes during the 1980s.
- Worked as a national selector for the Indian cricket team.
Yashpal Sharma Cricketer Death
On July 13, 2021, Yashpal Sharma died of a heart attack in New Delhi. His death came as a shock to the cricketing world. Players and fans from all generations remembered the true hero of India’s 1983 victory. His legacy persists in inspiring cricketers all over India.
Lesser Known Facts About Yashpal Sharma
- He earned the name “Crisis Man” from his ability to deliver under pressure.
- Among the few who managed to deal with fast bowling in that era, he was Indian.
- The movie “83,” which is about the 1983 World Cup, had his character played by Jatin Sarna.
- Along with other current players such as Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar, he was highly respected.
Conclusion
Yashpal Sharma will always be thought of as one of his time’s most courageous and trustworthy cricketers. He did his part to define history with his exploits in the 1983 World Cup. Yashpal Sharma was not always as acclaimed as he could be, but he undoubtedly left his mark on Indian cricket.
FAQ’s
Who was Yashpal Sharma?
Yashpal Sharma was a former Indian cricketer who played for India between 1979 and 1983.
Is Yashpal Sharma Cricketer alive?
On July 13, 2021, Yashpal Sharma died of a heart attack in New Delhi.
Who was Yashpal Sharma’s Cricketer wife?
Yashpal Sharma’s cricketer was married to Renu Sharma.
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