Shashank Singh Praises Shreyas Iyer’s Sharp Captaincy and Ricky Ponting’s Humility
Bengaluru, Karnataka: Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh couldn’t stop raving about his skipper Shreyas Iyer’s leadership skills after IPL 2025. In a chat with , Shashank highlighted how Iyer’s sharp cricketing brain and calm approach make him a standout captain.
Shashank pointed out Iyer’s inclusive style, which goes way beyond just the playing XI. "The way he changed the bowling, set some angles in fielding—he has a very sharp cricketing brain," Shashank said. "He’s calm under pressure and handles players brilliantly, even those not in the lineup. That’s tough in the fast-paced IPL world."
Iyer’s IPL journey has been impressive. He led Kolkata Knight Riders to their third IPL title in 2024. After the franchise released him, Punjab Kings snapped him up in the 2025 mega auction. Under Iyer’s guidance, PBKS reached the IPL 2025 final but fell short by six runs against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Shashank also shared his excitement about meeting PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting. The Australian legend lived up to his reputation with his down-to-earth nature and deep cricket knowledge. "It was a great experience," Shashank said. "I’ve heard so many stories about him, and when I met him, he’s just a good person—humble and with a sharp mind for the game."
As an aggressive middle-order batter and IPL finisher, Shashank has played for teams like Delhi Daredevils (2017), Rajasthan Royals (2019), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2022). In 33 IPL innings, he’s smashed 773 runs at an average of 40.68, including five half-centuries and a best of 68*.
His IPL 2025 season was a breakout one, where he scored 350 runs in 14 innings at a strike rate of 153.50, helping PBKS storm into the final. He shone in the big match too, remaining unbeaten on 61 against RCB.
Shashank first grabbed headlines in IPL 2024 with an unbeaten 61 off 29 balls against Gujarat Titans. As a true finisher, he stayed not out in seven of his 14 IPL 2025 innings—more than anyone else.
Talking about the finisher’s role in IPL cricket, Shashank stressed the need to stay dynamic and handle pressure smartly. He looks up to legends like MS Dhoni, Hardik Pandya, and Yuvraj Singh. "A finisher has to adapt quickly and manage the heat," he said. "Mahi bhai did it for years for India. Hardik’s doing it now. And Yuvi paaji—his pressure-handling won us the 2007 and 2011 World Cups. I give him huge credit."
Shashank feels his experience has made him sharper. He’s tackled high-stakes games for his state team and IPL sides, building confidence for bigger stages. "I’ve gotten smarter over time and given my all for my state," he added. "I’ve batted at 5, 6, or 7 there and in IPL, so I’m ready for the highest level—maybe even India in the future."
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