New Delhi, April 20 (NationPress) Shreyas Iyer, the captain of Punjab Kings, expressed that referring to openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya as ‘match-winners’ significantly enhances their confidence, enabling them to play with greater freedom in the IPL.

Both Prabhsimran and Priyansh have scored 211 runs each in the current season, helping PBKS remain the only unbeaten team in the tournament. “Our team room is a space we all share, and we make it a point to spend quality time together both before and after matches, as well as on our off days.

“During these moments, we strengthen our camaraderie. My consistent message to them is simple: be yourself. There’s no need to copy or imitate anyone else. At this level, when you play with fearlessness and flair, you don’t need to resemble anyone.

“By acknowledging them as match-winners, it builds their confidence. They can step out onto the field and play freely. They have been instrumental for us, and I hope they continue delivering,” Iyer remarked on JioStar’s ‘Believe’.

Iyer also reminisced about a strategic decision to bring in Shashank Singh against Sunrisers Hyderabad after a vigorous power-play. “After the first six overs, I immediately called for a timeout. Shashank Singh was eager to contribute at that time.

“You have to appreciate the spirit and qualities he brings, as when other bowlers are being taken for runs, he approaches me directly and requests an over, stating, ‘I think I can change the game.’ I initially didn't respond to him.

“Ricky came over, inquired about my next bowler, and I replied, ‘I’m considering Shashank.’ Ricky said, ‘It’s your decision, go ahead.’ In his first over, he conceded just five or six runs, not taking a wicket. However, in his subsequent over, he took two quick wickets, shifting the momentum,” he added.

Regarding the aspiration to secure the IPL trophy this season after finishing as runners-up last year, Iyer detailed how he consistently visualizes winning the title with PBKS. “In any tournament I partake in, my goal is to win. Winning holds paramount importance; there's no alternative. If it doesn’t happen, I can accept it and move forward.

“But all my efforts are aimed at clinching that trophy. I play to win. Whatever tournaments and opportunities arise, my goal remains the same. This year, the intention is to win the IPL.

“I want to send out a clear message to the universe that I aim to lift that trophy. Achieving that requires taking small steps and a unified team effort; only then can we realize that goal,” he concluded.