‘Excited to play with MS Dhoni, will give my 100%’:Kartik Sharma says, ‘Joining CSK is a dream come true’ | EXCLUSIVE

When Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bought 19-year-old Kartik Sharma for ₹14.20 crore at the IPL auction, it turned into an emotional moment not just for the young cricketer but for his entire family. Kartik was watching the auction live on television at home with his family members when CSK placed the final bid. Speaking to Dainik Bhaskar, Kartik said the atmosphere at home changed instantly. There was happiness all around, but he could not control his emotions. The young wicketkeeper-batter from Bharatpur, Rajasthan, admitted that the moment felt unreal. “I couldn’t understand anything. I got up from there, went aside and started crying. Neither my family nor I expected such a huge amount. Still can’t understand what to do with this money,” Kartik said. Also read: From Prashant Veer to Kartik Sharma: Fairy tale scenes from families as uncapped Indian players headline in IPL 2026 mini-auction | WATCH Dream of playing for CSK and with MS Dhoni Kartik Sharma said joining a team like the Chennai Super Kings is a dream come true for him. The teenager revealed that the CSK management had spoken to him before the auction and assured him they would try their best to pick him. “Being part of a team like CSK is like a dream for me,” Kartik said. He added, “I am a middle-order batsman, but whichever position the team gives me a chance at, I will give my 100 percent.” Kartik’s cricket journey began at the age of 4–5 Recalling his early days, Kartik said his journey with cricket started when he was just 4–5 years old. “My father Manoj Kumar introduced me to cricket when I was 4-5 years old,” he said. His father had played cricket at the local level but had to stop due to injury. Kartik shared that his father wanted one of his three sons to fulfil his dream. His younger brother Anmol also plays cricket, while the youngest, Prince, is still studying. From Under-14 to Under-19 journey Kartik received his early training from his father before joining Chahar Cricket Academy, where he played Under-14, Under-17 and Under-19 cricket. Later, he moved to Aravali Cricket Academy in Jaipur, where he continues to sharpen his skills. Hard phase and father’s advice Kartik also spoke about a tough period in his career. “There was a time in my career when I didn’t get a chance in the team for 3-4 years,” he said. His father encouraged him to stay patient and keep working hard. Practices 8 to 10 hours daily Kartik said his routine involves 8–10 hours of daily practice. “I practice long shots for 3-4 hours in the morning… In the evening, I practice batting with the bowling machine for another 3-4 hours,” he said. Coach Jagsimran Singh and coach Vikas Yadav both praised Kartik’s dedication and believed he would attract a big bid. Now at CSK, Kartik is expected to get a bigger stage and valuable exposure. Father’s sacrifice behind the success To support his son’s cricketing journey, Kartik’s father, Manoj Sharma, sold his shop and also took a loan. He purchased a bowling machine to help Kartik practise and worked by supplying cold drinks and water bottles to raise funds. Manoj Sharma also teaches private tuition to support the family. Father sold cold drinks, but kept the dream alive According to Shatrughan Tiwari, 19-year-old Kartik lives near a petrol pump in the Darapur area and comes from a very poor family. His father earns a living by teaching tuition, while his mother, Radha Sharma, is a housewife. Kartik himself also taught tuition to contribute to household expenses and to buy his cricket kit. Despite financial hardship, his father never stopped him from playing, recognising his talent and doing small odd jobs to ensure he could continue with cricket.