When the Punjab Kings (PBKS) bought Shashank Singh at the IPL 2024 auction, it was called a mistake. But what happened next shocked everyone. The uber talented cricketer from Chhattisgarh turned into Punjab Kings’ star player. He scored 423 runs, smashed 21 sixes, and hit 28 fours. These weren’t just numbers – they made him the team’s highest scorer at IPL 2024.
PBKS show immense faith in Shashank Singh
Much like every cycle, PBKS went ahead with another overhaul as they retained just two players – both uncapped. On October 31, Diwali got even more sweeter for both Shashank Singh and Prabhsimran Singh, who were retained for a combined total of ₹9.50 crore.
Albeit controversially, Shashank was bought for a mere ₹20 lakh. Now, he earns ₹5.5 crore, more than “uncapped” MS Dhoni to be precise. For those unaware, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper was retained for just ₹4 crore at IPL 2025 retentions. In an exclusive interview with News18, Shashank even delve into his unlikely opportunity to lead the Kings going into the IPL 2025.
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Captain Shashank Singh?
When quizzed about potential captaincy at PBKS, Shashank Singh put his thoughts forward and said that he would welcome it with both arms. “The responsibility on my shoulder doesn’t change at all,” says Shashank. “Be it an uncapped player last year or an uncapped retention now, the job is to go out and give my 110% and make the team win.”
What’s interesting about Shashank is that he’s not just a good player – he’s also a natural leader. Big names like Shikhar Dhawan and Dinesh Karthik have played under his leadership before. When asked about possibly becoming captain, Shashank stayed humble but showed confidence.
“I have been leading in the DY Patil T20 tournament for five years and touchwood, I’m doing good so far,” he said. “If Punjab Kings want to try me as captain, I will definitely grab that opportunity with both hands.” At 32, Shashank’s story is special because it shows how life can change quickly in cricket. One year you’re called a mistake, the next year you’re the team’s most important player.
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