Punjab Kings (PBKS) star player Shashank Singh played a crucial role in his team’s victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025 on Tuesday night. Alongside centurion Priyansh Arya, Shashank helped taking PBKS to a massive total of 219, contributing an unbeaten 52 off 36 balls. His performance has been very important in establishing him as an emerging finisher in the league.
Living in the Moment
After the match, Shashank emphasised the importance of staying present and focusing on each ball. He said, “When you enter the field, you don’t think about the past performance or the future performance, it’s just the bat and the ball. So, my goal was to be on the wicket and maximise my scoring.”
Praising his mentors
Shashank credited cricket legends Brian Lara and Ricky Ponting for his development as a player. Reflecting on their mentorship, he shared, “(Brian) Lara sir the way he told me about my batting, he told me how should I go and take my batting. Usually at 6-8, power hitters come into the crease. But, I’m someone who times the ball.” Shashank also appreciated Ricky Ponting’s support, stating, “I’m also lucky to have Ricky Ponting with me, before coming into the IPL (this season), because I wasn’t playing that well in the nets. But the way Ricky sir believed in me and backed me, kudos to him.”
Priyansh Arya’s historic century
Shashank’s partner in the match, Priyansh Arya, who delivered a breathtaking performance with a century off just 39 balls, marking the fastest century by an uncapped player and the fifth-fastest in IPL history. Arya, a talent from the Delhi Premier League, continued to show his potential at the highest level. Praising Arya, Shashank said, “In match one, when he (Priyansh Arya) played against GT, he showed glimpses. He does it for his state side and now he is doing the same at the highest level. I’m very happy for him. He is a very bright prospect for the country as well.”
