Former India batter Aakash Chopra remarked that PBKS batsman Shashank Singh harbours a desire to make an impact against SRH. The impending clash between Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the newly-constructed Yadavindra International Stadium in Mullanpur sets the stage for Shashank to showcase his prowess once more, following his pivotal role in PBKS’s triumph over GT last week.
Signed by PBKS at the IPL 2024 mini-auction for his base price of Rs 20 lakh, Shashank’s journey from SRH to PBKS adds an intriguing dimension to the upcoming encounter. Both teams, having won two and lost two matches this season, currently occupy the fifth and sixth positions respectively in the IPL 2024 points table.
“How can I not choose Shashank Singh now? Shashank has a score to settle as well. He used to be a part of Hyderabad earlier. If I remember, he hit big shots against Lockie Ferguson at the Wankhede Stadium and then he was let go. Then no one wanted him,” said Chopra.
Expressing his thoughts on his YouTube channel, Chopra highlighted Shashank’s determination to prove himself against his former team. Having previously played 10 matches for SRH, Shashank’s stint with them yielded modest returns, prompting his move to PBKS. Reflecting on Shashank’s recent form, Chopra emphasized his adaptability against spin and pace bowling, praising his cricketing acumen and power-hitting abilities.
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“Then Shashank said – ‘Wait’, and made a mark for the Punjab franchise. The way he batted in the last match, the good thing was that he was playing spin very well, reading the ball from the hand, and we saw the cricketing smarts in him against fast bowling. He was hitting the ball into gaps and has got the power,” Chopra added.
Shikhar Dhawan to deliver in PBKS vs SRH
Chopra also expressed confidence in PBKS captain Shikhar Dhawan’s ability to deliver against SRH. Recalling Dhawan’s memorable innings during PBKS’s previous encounter with SRH, where he remained unbeaten on 99 runs, Chopra anticipated a strong showing from the seasoned campaigner.
“You expect runs from Shikhar Dhawan against the kind of new-ball threat here. The last time he played against Hyderabad in Hyderabad, he was stranded in the 90s at one end. So the expectation will be that someone will support him and understand his emotions, and he will play well,” said Chopra.
Despite Dhawan’s stellar performance in the previous fixture, which included five sixes and 12 boundaries, PBKS fell short of victory. Chopra stressed the importance of Dhawan receiving support from his teammates to capitalize on his form and guide PBKS to success.
With both PBKS and SRH eyeing a move into the top-four of the IPL 2024 points table, Tuesday’s encounter promises to be a fiercely contested battle.
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