BENGALURU: A conversation with Jammu and Kashmir head coach Ajay Sharma feels like listening to a gripping film script — complete with a stirring storyline, powerful performances and punchlines. And redemption.
The 61-year-old former India batter, who took charge ahead of the 2022-23 season, describes his journey with the J&K side as a rebirth. It is a sentiment rooted in experience. His playing career was derailed by matchfixing allegations, charges from which he was cleared by the judiciary, forcing him to rebuild his life and reputation from scratch. Now, as a coach, Sharma has scripted a remarkable resurgence. He has instilled culture, belief and a winning mindset into a side that has defied expectations.
With Jammu and Kashmir set to face eight-time champions Karnataka in their maiden Ranji Trophy final in Hubballi starting on Tuesday, Sharma spoke to TOI about the team’s rise, the hardships, and the hunger that fuels their campaign. Excerpts
How challenging was the role when you took over?
The first year was tough. Back then, their mindset was different. They only wanted to play in the IPL and hadn’t developed the temperament for red-ball cricket. Irrespective of the format, the batters would step out to hit from the first ball. I was furious, and it took me some time to understand them. I started believing that if these players are groomed mentally, their mindset would change and that’s what happened. But it was anything but easy. The first year, they did not warm up to me. Their attitude towards me was like: ‘Boriya bistar bandh ke niklo.’ In fact, I asked them to write a review at the end of my first season, and 13 players wrote that they didn’t like being coached by me. I changed myself from being a strict coach to going down to their level, communicating and understanding them. This team has stuck together since then.
Has red ball cricket given you a second chance as well?
Absolutely. It’s my second birth after I went through a lot of difficulties in life. When Mithun Manhas called me four years ago and asked me to take over, I wasn’t sure because nobody really gave the J&K team much thought. Many friends from across the world, with whom I had lost touch for years, have been calling me and telling me that they are proud of my work and are rooting for the team to win the championship. That’s how much life has changed.
Going into the final, what has been your conversation with the players?
My message to them is clear. We play the game, not the opposition. We are going out there to win. Just focus on the process and the result will take care of itself. A title win can change their fortunes. I’ve told them this could open doors — India call-ups, India A opportunities, even IPL contracts. I’ve told them to remember, a champion team can beat a team of champions. Whether you are a batter or a bowler, red-ball cricket always gives you a second chance. That’s the lesson we learnt in the semifinal against Bengal — even after conceding the 1st-innings lead, we found a way back.
Can you take us through the rise of Nabi?
I haven’t seen a bowler like him in my life. He is like a horse. He is so focused and hardworking that selection is hardly on his mind. So he’s reaping the rewards now with the domestic performance of the IPL contract. It’s not that easy for him to play. Auqib Nabi is a lot like Mohd Shami; what he lacks in speed, he makes up for in skill. Also, speed is not the only weapon you need. Whether we are playing on a pata wicket, green top or a turner, his mindset remains the same. He concentrates on bowling in the right areas and taking wickets. That is what has made him one of the most feared bowlers in the domestic circuit.
What makes this team tick?
The journey and the struggles of these boys are extraordinary. Given the circumstances in the region, they’ve faced challenges from a very young age. Most of our players come from districts with hardly any facilities, but things have changed for the better now. One example is pacer Sunil Kumar, who has been outstanding this season. He came through a talent hunt programme. This is a boy who once struggled to afford two square meals a day, and today, after Nabi, he is the backbone of our team. That hunger drives them. For us, only performance matters — not reputation or names. That’s why you don’t see Umran Malik in the team.