Synopsis
In a thrilling IPL 2025 match, Kane Williamson praised Shashank Singh's explosive 44 off 16 balls that secured Punjab Kings' victory over Gujarat Titans. He highlighted Shashank's composure and adaptability against top bowlers and commended Shreyas Iyer's exceptional 97 not out. Both players showcased remarkable talent and leadership on the field.Key Takeaways
- Kane Williamson commended Shashank Singh for his exceptional performance.
- Shashank scored an impressive unbeaten 44 off 16 balls.
- Shreyas Iyer contributed significantly with 97 not out.
- Both players showcased adaptability against top bowlers.
- Punjab Kings secured an 11-run win over Gujarat Titans.
New Delhi, March 26 (NationPress) New Zealand batting legend Kane Williamson lauded Shashank Singh, the middle-order batter of Punjab Kings, for his explosive unbeaten 44 runs off merely 16 balls, which was pivotal in securing an 11-run victory against Gujarat Titans during their IPL 2025 clash on Tuesday.
Williamson highlighted Shashank's remarkable composure at the crease, showcasing an impressive array of attacking shots against some of the tournament's top bowlers.
"Shashank had an exceptional breakout season last year. He remains incredibly still at the crease, possesses beautiful hands, and maintains minimal movement, yet he has countless scoring opportunities. He adeptly adjusts to short-pitched deliveries—whether by ramping over the wicketkeeper or pulling off a length ball—while also being capable of executing powerful straight drives," Williamson stated on JioHotstar.
"His approach during the death overs, coming in with scant time to settle and confidently facing bowlers, is truly remarkable. When Rashid Khan slightly misses his length, and Shashank sends it back over square, that’s an exceedingly challenging shot against a bowler of Rashid’s caliber. It truly reflects the quality of the player," Williamson added.
In addition to Shashank's late surge, Punjab Kings' captain Shreyas Iyer also shone with a match-winning 97 not out off 42 balls, striking nine sixes and five fours at a strike rate of 230.95.
"What stands out about Shreyas is his continual evolution as a player. Previously, teams targeted him with short balls, but now he’s adapting remarkably—getting deeper in his crease, reducing the weight on his front leg, and mastering short deliveries. His capability to shift his weight forward again poses difficulties for bowlers attempting the ‘one-two’ strategy—going short first, then full. He can now target all areas of the ground, making him an incredibly potent batter," Williamson remarked.
Iyer’s innings was a display of breathtaking stroke play, as he commanded the game from the outset. "It was an innings of the highest quality. From the very first ball, it resembled a highlight reel—he struck the ball exactly where it needed to be hit. Anything outside off stump, he aimed for the offside, and even hit sixes over cover against some of the world’s finest seamers," Williamson commented.
"Taking on Rashid Khan is one of the most formidable challenges in the game. As a leader, stepping in at No. 3, setting the tone, and confronting the opposition’s top threats was extraordinary. That innings was truly out of this world," he concluded.
