Mumbai: After an impressive run in the Indian Premier League 2025 season, Punjab Kings are gearing up to build on their success, with a strong focus on their fearless young brigade. Speaking on ‘JioStar Press Room’, batter Shashank Singh highlighted the mindset and potential of the team’s emerging stars.
“The best thing about the youngsters is that they are completely fearless,” Shashank said, referring to players like Nehal Wadhera, Suryansh Shedge, and Harnoor Singh. “They don’t overthink situations. Even after a few dot balls, they move on quickly and focus on the next delivery. In the IPL, confidence is everything, and that’s their biggest strength.”
He also pointed out the immense talent within the squad, mentioning youngsters like Priyansh Arya, while emphasising the need for maturity and adaptability at the highest level.
Shashank credited head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer for transforming the team’s culture and instilling belief.
“The freedom and backing we receive from them is incredible. Even after tough losses, like the qualifier against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the dressing room environment remained positive. That kind of trust helps players perform without fear,” he noted.
Reflecting on last season’s near-miss, Shashank said the team is more motivated than ever.
“We felt something was missing when we didn’t win the final. This year, every player has worked on their weaknesses. The motivation is high, and the atmosphere in the camp is fantastic. We believe we can do even better this season.”
He also spoke about handling expectations, especially for rising talents like Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Priyansh Arya.
“The second season is always tougher because teams analyse your game. The mental side becomes crucial. But from what I’ve seen, these players are calm and focused, and they know what they want to achieve,” he added.
Praising Ponting’s leadership style, Shashank emphasised the inclusive environment within the squad.
“He treats everyone equally, whether it’s a senior player like Shreyas Iyer or a newcomer. His approach creates a strong team bond. His cricketing knowledge is exceptional, and he keeps things simple, which helps players avoid overthinking.”
With a blend of youthful exuberance and experienced leadership, Punjab Kings appear well-positioned to mount another strong challenge, driven by a fearless approach and a unified team environment.
