Why Did Shashank Singh's Respect for Preity Zinta Increase So Much This Year?

New Delhi, Sep 18 (NationPress) Punjab Kings all-rounder Shashank Singh expressed his deep admiration for the team’s co-owner, Preity Zinta, highlighting her remarkable contributions during the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Throughout the IPL, one constant for the Punjab Kings franchise has been Preity Zinta’s unwavering support. The Bollywood star consistently attends games, passionately cheering for the Men in Red as they navigate the highs and lows of the tournament.

Many players from the franchise have lauded Zinta for her commitment to attending matches and uplifting the team spirit. Shashank Singh believes her presence has significantly benefited him and his teammates. He shared his respect for her and the joy he feels when conversing with her.

“I’m quite close to her personally. It’s always a delight to engage in conversation with her. I was nervous when I joined the team in 2024, but we now share casual chats, and I genuinely enjoy our discussions,” Shashank mentioned in an exclusive interview with IANS.

The 33-year-old recalled a moment when Zinta went above and beyond to ensure the team’s safe return home during IPL 2025. The match between PBKS and Delhi Capitals at the HPCA stadium in Dharamsala was abruptly halted, prompting both players and spectators to vacate the venue.

He expressed his concern about the unexpected situation, saying:

“My respect for her has grown immensely this year. When our match was canceled midway in Dharamsala due to escalating tensions in the country, there was palpable fear among everyone, including the crowd and players. It was an unusual experience. The crowd was instructed to leave the stadium after a blackout, and we were escorted off the field abruptly. They returned our mobiles and urged us to hurry to the hotel.”

The Chhattisgarh cricketer commended Zinta’s dedication, emphasizing how she took charge to ensure both teams were safe and arrived in Delhi without incident.

“She was up all night, doing everything in her power to facilitate our travel the next day. We had to take a train to Delhi, which was different from the usual arrangements. She was thoroughly involved in making sure not only her team members but also the opposing team's players reached their next destination safely. She personally communicated with all the drivers, ensured food was properly packed, and monitored the handling of our kit bags. While both franchises had their management teams, she went the extra mile to ensure everything was organized,” he added.

“Despite being a major celebrity, she attended to the smallest details to ensure everyone was comfortable. She stayed in touch with everyone until we reached home when the tournament was paused. That day, my admiration for Preity mam grew immensely. She possesses the spirit of an army officer, which was evident throughout. She truly deserves all the accolades,” Shashank concluded.

The PBKS middle-order batter last played during the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifted their first title in the tournament's history.