Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh struck quick-paced half-centuries, lifting Punjab Kings (PBKS) to an unexpected total of 219 for 5 in Jaipur. Despite Rajasthan Royals (RR) claiming three early wickets within the first 19 balls, PBKS remained aggressive, managing to post 58 runs by the end of the powerplay and continuing to build on that momentum.
Wadhera has been somewhat underrated in this IPL season, contributing significantly to a dynamic batting line-up. Out of his ten innings, six boast a strike rate exceeding 150. Against spinners, he averages 84 with a strike rate of 156, while against fast bowlers, he maintains a strike rate of 160 but with an average of 23. His innings forced RR to rethink their strategy, as even their top bowler, Tushar Deshpande, resorted to death-overs tactics like yorkers and bouncers as early as the 15th over.
Wadhera eventually fell for 70 off 37 balls, marking his highest score in T20 cricket. His dismissal could have come sooner had Wanindu Hasaranga held onto a difficult return catch when Wadhera was on 48. Even with Wadhera’s exit and four overs still to play, PBKS did not relent. Shashank Singh, adeptly fulfilling his role as a finisher, capitalised on RR’s fielding mishaps; he was dropped on 11 by Dhruv Jurel at long-off.
Shashank navigated RR’s wide-yorker strategy by shifting in his crease to great effect, smashing a 25-ball half-century. During the final four overs, PBKS amassed 60 runs, firmly cementing their challenging target for Rajasthan Royals.
