Ahmedabad, March 25, 2025 – The Narendra Modi Stadium was buzzing with excitement as Punjab Kings (PBKS) clinched a nail-biting 11-run victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 5 of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.
Following the high-octane clash, PBKS batter Shashank Singh took center stage at the post-match press conference, offering insights into his match-defining performance and the team’s spirited triumph.
A Game-Changing Knock
Shashank Singh emerged as a key figure in Punjab Kings’ imposing total of 243/5, smashing an unbeaten 44 off just 16 balls.
His blistering knock, studded with six fours and two sixes, complemented captain Shreyas Iyer’s sensational 97* off 42 balls, forming an unbeaten 81-run partnership that propelled PBKS to a formidable score.
The Gujarat Titans, despite valiant efforts from Sai Sudharsan (74) and Jos Buttler (54), fell short at 232/5, handing PBKS a memorable win in their season opener.
Speaking to the media, Shashank reflected on his explosive contribution.
“It feels amazing to play a part in such a big win. The Narendra Modi Stadium is a special venue, and to deliver under pressure here is something I’ll cherish,” he said.
His composure in the death overs, alongside Iyer’s aggressive strokeplay, turned the tide in PBKS’s favor, leaving GT’s bowlers reeling.
Team Dynamics and Shreyas Iyer’s Leadership
Shashank didn’t shy away from praising his captain, Shreyas Iyer, who fell just three runs short of a maiden IPL century.
“Shreyas was phenomenal. He told me not to worry about his hundred and just focus on finishing strong for the team. That selflessness drives us,” Shashank revealed, shedding light on their on-field camaraderie.
Iyer’s nine sixes and five fours underscored his intent to lead from the front, marking a stellar debut as PBKS captain.
The press conference also highlighted PBKS’s newfound unity under Iyer’s leadership and head coach Ricky Ponting’s guidance.
“We’ve got a great mix of experience and youth. The energy in the dressing room is electric,” Shashank noted, hinting at a revitalized Punjab Kings squad determined to end their 18-year IPL title drought.
A History of Heroics at Narendra Modi Stadium
This isn’t Shashank’s first rodeo at Ahmedabad. Fans will recall his heroics in IPL 2024, when he smashed an unbeaten 61 off 29 balls at the same venue, steering PBKS to a dramatic chase of 200 against GT.
His consistency at Narendra Modi Stadium has cemented his reputation as a clutch performer, and Tuesday’s performance only added to his growing legacy.
“I love batting here. The bounce is true, and if you get your eye in, you can really take the game away,” Shashank said with a grin, acknowledging the batting-friendly conditions that have made Ahmedabad a run-fest in recent IPL seasons.
Gujarat Titans’ Struggles and What Lies Ahead
While PBKS celebrated, Gujarat Titans were left to rue their missed opportunities. Captain Shubman Gill’s decision to bowl first backfired as their bowlers struggled to contain PBKS’s late onslaught.
Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore (3/30) was a bright spot, but the likes of Rashid Khan and Mohammed Siraj were taken apart in the death overs.
Shashank’s comments subtly underscored GT’s woes: “We knew dew would play a role, and we capitalized on it.”
As PBKS basks in their early success, Shashank remained grounded.
“It’s just the start. We’ve got a long season ahead, and we need to keep this momentum going,” he cautioned. With a squad boasting stars like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Arshdeep Singh, PBKS looks poised for a strong campaign.
The Road Ahead for Shashank and PBKS
Shashank’s rise from an accidental buy in the 2024 mini-auction to a retained star at ₹5.5 crore has been nothing short of remarkable.
His 423 runs in IPL 2024, including two fifties, showcased his finishing prowess, and his Match 5 heroics signal more fireworks to come.
When asked about his goals, he kept it simple: “I just want to keep contributing. If we lift that trophy, that’s the dream.”
As the press conference wrapped up, Shashank left the room with a quiet confidence, his words resonating with fans and analysts alike.
Punjab Kings have fired an early warning shot in IPL 2025, and Shashank Singh is at the heart of their resurgence.
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