'Like an elder brother': Prabhsimran Discusses His Bond with Yuvraj
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New Delhi, April 9 (NationPress) The remarkable ascent of Punjab Kings' wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh is significantly attributed to the invaluable guidance of Yuvraj Singh, a stalwart who has faced the intense demands of international cricket for over a decade.
For Prabhsimran, who has accumulated 80 runs across three innings for PBKS in IPL 2026, his connection with Yuvraj resembles that of an "elder brother" rather than a conventional coach. During a virtual roundtable discussion organized by the franchise on Thursday, Prabhsimran shared insights into the personal nature of his mentorship with Yuvraj, the changing landscape of T20 cricket, and how his experience with India A has elevated his aspirations for the senior team.
Q. The scoring rates in T20 cricket are reaching new heights every IPL season. How has your mindset during the powerplay evolved, considering that 200-plus totals are now expected?
A. The game has indeed accelerated. In the past, totals of 170-180 were defendable. We still defend such totals; however, achieving 200-plus is now standard. To secure those scores, I believe it's essential to approach the powerplay with an aggressive mindset.
The clarity from the team, coaches, and captain is crucial. If the decision is to attack, then we should pursue it wholeheartedly. Cricket has quickened, making it less challenging to score 200-plus runs.
Q. How do you perceive your growth from the early days with Punjab Kings when opportunities were scarce to now being a regular fixture?
A. It's been eight years since I joined Punjab Kings. Initially, my playing opportunities were limited. However, for the past 3-4 years, I've consistently received chances, and I strive to excel every time I step onto the field. Though results can vary, I appreciate the support from Punjab Kings. I always emphasize that their backing obligates me to repay them with my performance. In terms of leadership, I've taken on a captain-like role as a domestic player, which challenges me and fosters my development.
Q. From a wicketkeeper's standpoint, how do you read the game, and how do you support captain Shreyas Iyer in this aspect?
A. As a wicketkeeper, I have a unique vantage point to assess the match. Unlike a captain who might be on the boundary where distractions abound, I have a clear view of the wicket. My role includes monitoring fielding positions, communicating with fielders and bowlers about our strategy, which ultimately aids in enhancing our performance.
Q. Your training sessions with Yuvraj Singh have garnered attention. Can you elaborate on your relationship with him?
A. My relationship with Yuvi paaji goes beyond that of a coach and student; I regard him as an elder brother. Priyansh Arya and I practice under his guidance, and whenever we have time, we connect with him for practice sessions, which he arranges, whether in Mohali or Gurugram.
He takes care of everything on his own. If I reach out to him at odd hours, he is ready to help. This freedom fosters a strong bond where we discuss everything openly. His advice revolves around gameplay, technique, and mindset. During the IPL season, we focus less on technique, but post-IPL, we have time to rectify mistakes under his mentorship.
Q. Having been part of the India A setup and scoring a century there, how has that shaped your perspective on moving up to the senior national team?
A. The goal when joining India A is to break into the senior Indian team and perform well. Each performance in India A is a step toward that goal, and doing well there builds confidence that the senior team is within reach.