Nehal Wadhera Praises Shreyas Iyer's Confidence and Ricky Ponting's Guidance

New Delhi, April 11 (NationPress) Punjab Kings batter Nehal Wadhera expressed his views on collaborating with skipper Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting, emphasizing that the confidence the captain exudes is truly remarkable and being guided by a coach like Ponting is a significant advantage.

Punjab Kings acquired Wadhera for Rs 4.2 crore during the mega auction last year after a competitive bidding contest with Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans, marking a return to his roots for the local talent.

"The way he (Shreyas Iyer) instantly connected with all the players is something I really admire. The confidence he possesses is extraordinary. When a captain displays such belief, it naturally boosts the team's morale. Observing their history together - Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting during their tenure at DC - it was a winning partnership.

"Ricky Ponting, being the legend he is, contributes immensely. Whenever I practice with him in the nets, his words radiate positivity. Even the critiques feel negligible - they hardly resonate with us. Being in his presence feels like a true blessing," Wadhera shared on JioHotstar.

The left-handed batter and occasional leg-break bowler, who represents Punjab in domestic tournaments, began his IPL journey in 2023 with MI, where he showcased flashes of brilliance by scoring 241 runs in 10 matches at a strike rate of 145.18, including two fifties, with a notable performance of 64 off 51 against Gujarat Titans.

Wadhera was released by MI prior to IPL 2025 and was picked up by PBKS, stepping in as a crucial middle-order contributor. This season, he has participated in three games, accumulating 114 runs with a top score of 62 against Rajasthan Royals.

Expressing his enthusiasm about joining PBKS, Wadhera remarked, "This year, I’ve joined Punjab Kings, and I’m genuinely excited to play for my home team. Representing your home side is a unique emotion for any player. When I was chosen by Punjab Kings, it was an overwhelming moment - I felt truly emotional. I’m eager to contribute and assist Punjab Kings in claiming the trophy this season."

Reflecting on his personal growth over the past two IPL seasons, he added, "In the last two IPL seasons, I’ve concentrated on enhancing my weaker areas - specifically working on the shots and deliveries that challenged me. My goal is to achieve greater success this year and ideally make this a breakthrough season."

Wadhera also recalled his performances in domestic cricket leading up to the ongoing IPL season, stating, "We qualified for the domestic season in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and the Punjab team excelled. My preparation was robust, and overall, it was a fruitful domestic season for me. I've aimed to carry forward the insights gained from there into the IPL to continue my improvement.

"I've spent the last two years in the IPL, and they have been crucial for my development. This year, my expectations align with my role—it's about stepping up for the team in challenging and critical moments and helping us advance."

The 24-year-old concluded by declaring his 64-run knock against CSK at Chepauk from IPL 2023 as a cherished milestone in his IPL journey.

"There was a moment that held great significance for me. In the past two years, I scored my maiden fifty against CSK at Chepauk. At that juncture, we faced a tough situation - around 15 for 3 - and from there, steering the team to a total of around 160 while scoring 60 off, I believe, 50 balls was crucial for me. I feel I played a significant role for the team in that match.

"Had I been dismissed early, I doubt we would’ve achieved that score. The preparation I've engaged in since childhood has greatly aided me in managing such pressure scenarios. That innings is one of the closest to my heart," he reflected.