Punjab Kings batsman Shashank Singh praised his captain Shreyas Iyer for keeping the interests of the team ahead of his own milestone. Going into the last over of Punjab Kings' innings, Iyer was unbeaten on 97, while Shashank was on strike. Though he had a chance to assist Iyer with his first IPL century, Shashank obeyed his skipper's instructions and played his shots aggressively to score 23 runs off the last over.
Shreyas's Message: 'Don't Worry About My Hundred'
Shashank spoke about how Iyer motivated him to prioritize increasing the team's total instead of playing a single to achieve his century. "It takes a lot of heart and courage to say this because hundreds in T20s, especially in the IPL, don't come easily," Shashank said, recalling Iyer’s words before the final over.
Punjab Kings Win 11-Run Match Over Gujarat Titans
Shashank's rip-roaring finish was the difference as Punjab Kings beat Gujarat Titans by 11 runs at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. Shashank smashed 23 runs off the last over to help Punjab Kings top a big 243/5, a score that turned out to be match-winning.
"So naturally, when Shreyas said to me, 'Shashank, go and just hit every ball for a boundary or a six,' it made me even more confident. It's a team game ultimately, but in such situations, it's difficult to be that selfless. But Shreyas was," Shashank said. He remained not out on 44 off 18 balls, hitting six fours and two sixes.
81-Run Stand Seals Punjab Kings' Dominant Finish
The two added an 81-run partnership for the undefeated sixth wicket in a mere five overs. Talking about his extended connection with Iyer, Shashank mentioned, "I have known him for the last 10-15 years. He was always the same—composed and focused. He asked me to play my natural shots, be balanced, and remain calm. By God's grace, we had a wonderful finish."
Shreyas Iyer Player of the Match
For his blistering 42-ball knock, which consisted of nine sixes and five fours, Shreyas Iyer was given the Player of the Match. Though he fell short of his first IPL century, his match-winning innings and selfless attitude reflected his leadership and team-oriented nature.
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