More motivated than ever, says Shashank on PBKS youth

CHENNAI: Punjab Kings (PBKS) batter Shashank Singh is brimming with confidence ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, expressing strong belief that the franchise will go all the way and lift the trophy this year after narrowly missing out in the previous edition.Reflecting on the challenge of sustaining performance after a strong season, Shashank dismissed concerns around complacency among the younger players, insisting that the disappointment of not winning the title has only fuelled their hunger.“I think this year they are even more motivated because last year when we didn’t win the final, we sensed that something was missing and we made sure that thing is not missing this year.

Everyone is very pumped up. Obviously, teams must have planned for us, but reaching the final itself is a big thing in a tournament like the IPL. I still feel we have an edge because of the way everyone is preparing,” he said at JioStar Press Room.The Punjab Kings core, which features a number of uncapped Indian talents, has already attracted attention, but Shashank believes their fearless approach will continue to stand out despite increased scrutiny.

“Teams will be well prepared and there will be pressure of performance. I never wanted to be a one-year wonder. In the second season, every team plans for you, and there is pressure from fans, franchise and owners. But our youngsters are fearless. They don’t overthink, and this game is more about confidence,” he explained."There were conversation about our weak spots and how we can improve those things, we had 6-8 camps for that, Ricky's (Ponting) inputs were always there, we are better prepared than last year."Punjab Kings’ uncapped core played a pivotal role in their run to the IPL 2025 final, with youngsters delivering standout performances. Priyansh Arya enjoyed a breakout season, scoring 475 runs in 17 matches, while Prabhsimran Singh amassed 549 runs in 17 innings. Nehal Wadhera also impressed with 369 runs in 16 games, while Shashank Singh contributed 350 runs in 17 innings.“Prabhsimran is fearless but is getting more mature day by day.

Priyansh has also become more mature, and Nehal is batting at a different level. The young lot we have is very exciting,” he added.A significant factor behind Punjab Kings’ environment, according to Shashank, has been the influence of head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer, who have fostered a culture of trust and equality within the squad.“The reason we are fearless is because of Ricky and Shreyas. They have given us that freedom.

They don’t like to lose and don’t like negativity. Their thinking is similar and they always keep the team above individual goals,” he said.Elaborating on Ponting’s role, Shashank stressed the importance of team environment in a tournament like the IPL.“His role is very important. The way he handles all 25 players and the support staff makes a difference. Only 15-18 players feature regularly, so how the rest are treated is crucial.

He made sure from the first meeting that no one will be judged on performances and everyone is equal. His cricketing knowledge is sharp, and he keeps things simple,” he noted.Shashank added that the synergy between Ponting and Iyer has been vital to the team’s cohesion.“It is very important that the captain and coach are on the same page. The way they respect each other and think about the game is quite similar, and that’s why we love working under them,” he said.On his own role, the batter emphasised his focus on delivering impactful performances rather than chasing personal milestones.“My only goal is to play impactful innings. Ricky and Shreyas have always told me that is my role. I want to win matches for Punjab Kings and win the cup. I also want a picture with that trophy,” he said, adding that his contribution is as much mental as it is skill-based.He has assured to continue in a flexible middle-order role.

“Depending on the situation, I will be seen as a finisher and in the middle order, because I enjoy that role, Ricky asked me many times at what position I want to bat, but I have always told him that I have started loving this role and I am matured enough to fulfill this role because you need little experience for this role, I will be batting around 5 to 7,” he said.Shashank also reserved praise for key teammates, backing Yuzvendra Chahal to have a strong season and lauding Arshdeep Singh for his discipline and consistency.“Yuzi (Yuzvendra Chahal) is different. He has a very sharp cricketing brain and is always involved in discussions. Arshdeep has worked very hard, and everything is paying off now. He has been very disciplined,” he said.Having come close to the title last season, Shashank made it clear that the team’s focus remains firmly on improvement and collective success. “We have to be a better team than we were in the final. It is always about improving from the last match,” he noted.With strong belief in the squad’s preparation and unity, Shashank even made a bold prediction for the season ahead.“This is self-belief and belief in the team. Everyone is on the same page. I know that we will be playing the final and we will be lifting the cup. It will happen."