Although he is known as a “rhythm” bowler, he is still recognized as one of the fastest Indian bowlers. He has bowled at speeds exceeding 150 km/h multiple times in international cricket. During a Ranji Trophy match against Vidarbha at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the pacer playing for Delhi sustained a Grade 3 tear on his right ankle. Sharma had been away from international cricket for quite some time. But he made his comeback with a bang.
Earlier, Tim Southee picked up his four wickets as India were bundled out for 165. On 4 over of Day 2, things turned bad for India with two dismissals in two balls. The batting line-up failed to deliver and thus such a low score. However, three wickets by Ishant Sharma and late strikes by Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin kept India in the game as New Zealand reached 216 for 5 at stumps on Day 2 of the first IND vs NZ Test match at Wellington. New Zealand was at stage 166 for 2 but then Ishant dismissed Taylor for 44 which gave India an opening. India clawed it’s way back into this contest thanks to Ishant Sharma.
Ishant Sharma’s contribution to the team has made India’s chances of winning a tad bit high.