Shashank Singh, now a pivotal participant for Punjab Kings within the IPL, has emerged as one of the promising uncapped skills lately. Identified for his explosive batting and talent to complete video games beneath strain, Shashank was Punjab Kings’ prime run-scorer in IPL 2024, amassing 354 runs at a formidable strike price of 164.65. His performances, together with a standout unbeaten 61 off 29 balls towards Gujarat Titans, solidified his status as a match-winner. With Punjab Kings retaining him for IPL 2025, Shashank is decided to show his value and assist the franchise chase its elusive first title.
Nevertheless, behind this success lies a narrative of resilience and difficult selections. Earlier than changing into a star in Punjab Kings, Shashank needed to make a big profession transfer—leaving the Mumbai cricket setup, the place he started his journey as a cricketer.
Shashank Singh reveals why he left Mumbai cricket
In a candid revelation speaking to Sahiba Bali’s podcast on Punajb Kings’ You Tube channel, Shashank defined the explanations behind his departure from Mumbai’s cricketing circle. Regardless of honing his abilities in Mumbai’s aggressive home setup and making his Record A and T20 debut there, Shashank discovered it more and more troublesome to safe constant alternatives in red-ball cricket. The Mumbai workforce’s center order was stacked with distinctive expertise, together with gamers like Suryakumar Yadav, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Sarfaraz Khan, and Shivam Dube—all acting at their peak. This intense competitors left little room for Shashank to showcase his talents constantly.
“Nahi, true alternative nahi mil raha tha as a result of the competitors was a lot sturdy. Meri finish haan sach se hai baat to to nahi, clearly, kyunki jab fundamental attempt kar raha tha Bombay ki purple ball workforce mein jo Ranji Trophy bolte hain hum log usmein aane ka to clearly mera competitors tha Shreyas, Shivam Dube, Prithvi aa gaya tha, Sarfaraz tha, Siddesh Lad tha aur see approach good workforce thi. Everybody was performing, to kitne log maine dekhe hain, mujhe naam nahi lene hai however kitne log bole hain abey politics thi wahan pe, abey ye tha, wo tha nahi mere saath kuch bhi aisa nahi tha,” Shashank mentioned.
Shashank additionally dismissed rumours of politics inside the Mumbai cricket setup, stating that his expertise was optimistic and welcoming. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the sensible challenges of breaking right into a workforce the place gamers have been delivering stellar performances often.
“If somebody is scoring centuries constantly, why would you drop them to play me?” he added in the course of the interview. He emphasised that the shortage of alternatives was not on account of favouritism however just because Mumbai’s gamers have been excelling throughout codecs.
Emotional resolution to maneuver again residence
Leaving Mumbai was not a simple resolution for Shashank. He admitted to being deeply emotional concerning the transfer and even shed tears whereas discussing it together with his mentor at DY Patil Sports activities Academy. His mentor suggested him to be sensible about his profession objectives and advised that staying in Mumbai may result in wasted years with out important progress in red-ball cricket.
Following this recommendation, Shashank determined to return to his residence state of Chhattisgarh. This transfer allowed him to play all three codecs—red-ball, white-ball, and T20—and acquire extra alternatives to bowl and bat greater up the order. His resolution proved fruitful as he discovered success in home cricket whereas additionally securing a platform within the IPL.
Additionally READ: Shreyas Iyer misses his maiden IPL century, Shashank Singh reveals his chat with Punjab Kings’ captain – IPL 2025, GT vs PBKS
Shashank’s new chapter with Punjab Kings
Shashank’s journey took one other flip when Punjab Kings acknowledged his potential in the course of the IPL auctions. Regardless of preliminary confusion over his choice on account of a mix-up with one other participant sharing the identical identify, Punjab Kings retained their religion in him. Underneath the management of Shikhar Dhawan as captain, Shashank flourished in IPL 2024 and is now set for an additional impactful season in 2025.
Reflecting on his profession trajectory, Shashank credit self-belief and the rigorous home cricket system for shaping him into the participant he’s right this moment. He stays grateful for the alternatives supplied by Punjab Kings and is dedicated to contributing considerably to their success.
