IPL 2026: Shashank Singh Credits Ponting-Iyer Influence, Praises PBKS Youngsters’ Calm Under Pressure

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Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh has credited four uncapped players and captain Shreyas Iyer for the team’s strong TATA IPL 2025 run. He said the main task now is helping the “Fearless Prodigies” repeat that impact in the new season.

Speaking on JioStar, Shashank said Punjab’s youngsters, including Nehal Wadhera, Suryansh Shedge, and Harnoor Singh, stay calm under pressure. He felt they do not overthink, even after dot balls. He said their main strength in the IPL is confidence at the crease.

The PBKS batter further said that he watches Priyansh and Suryansh bat in the nets. He praised their talent but said they need more maturity. He now sees himself as a mature cricketer. He added that quick adaptation to match situations will help the youngsters reach the next level.

How Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer changed the PBKS mindset?

On head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer, Shashank spoke about constant backing and close tracking throughout the year. He linked Punjab’s fearless style to a relaxed environment. He said players have full freedom, which builds trust and keeps criticism away.

"The way they back us during practice sessions, and keep a tab on us throughout the year, is very important. We play a lot of cricket throughout the year. So, when you play regularly, maturity becomes less of an issue. The brand of cricket we play and why we are so fearless is because of the environment. They have given us complete freedom, and that's something I've always felt," Singh added during the press meet organised by JioStar.

Handling defeat and staying positive in key matches

Shashank recalled the first qualifier against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Punjab scored just over 100 and lost. He said there was no negative talk after that game. The focus stayed on the positives and the next match. He added that current camp discussions remain positive.

Shashank said the squad feels even more driven this season. They believe something was missing in last year’s final. Each batter has addressed past mistakes. He expects rival teams to plan hard for Punjab but feels the Kings still have a small edge.

Shashank said expectations in India are always high. He called Vaibhav Suryavanshi “a star in the making” and spoke of plans to test his technique. He said the second season is key for Priyansh Arya and others, mainly for handling pressure and chances.

Reading the personalities of the young stars

Shashank admitted he does not know Suryavanshi very well. From what he has seen, the youngster seems calm. On Priyansh, Shashank said the batter knows what he wants from cricket. He feels Priyansh can again perform well this year.

Shashank praised Ponting’s handling of players and staff. He said everyone, from Shreyas Iyer to new spinner Vishal Nishad from Uttar Pradesh, is treated the same. He said Ponting keeps plans simple, stays positive, and shares a strong understanding and respect with Shreyas.