Shashank Singh, a rising star for the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2024, showcased his prowess in a thrilling match against the Gujarat Titans (GT). Despite Shubman Gill’s formidable 89* propelling GT to a challenging 199/4, PBKS found themselves in a precarious position as their top batters struggled.
However, Shashank Singh emerged as the game-changer, smashing an unbeaten 61* off just 29 balls, including 4 sixes and 6 fours, steering PBKS to a remarkable victory in the final over.
Shashank’s heroics on the field were in stark contrast to the confusion surrounding his auction selection. During the IPL 2024 auction, the PBKS co-owners, Preity Zinta and Ness Wadia, appeared perplexed when they secured the bid for the uncapped Indian player.
It seemed as though the franchise hadn’t initially intended to acquire him, but the bid was already sealed. Even the auctioneer, Mallika Sagar, seemed taken aback as PBKS management scrambled to review the auction list. Nevertheless, PBKS proceeded with the purchase and publicly welcomed Shashank Singh to their roster.
2️⃣ Points ✅
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 4, 2024
Young guns Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma win it for @PunjabKingsIPL 🙌
They get over the line as they beat #GT by 3 wickets 👍
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/0Sy2civoOa #TATAIPL | #GTvPBKS pic.twitter.com/m7b5f8jLbz
PBKS clarified the situation, asserting that Shashank had always been a target acquisition for them. They attributed the confusion to the presence of two players with the same name on the auction list. Despite the initial ambiguity, PBKS expressed delight in having Shashank on board and anticipated his contribution to their success.
Shashank’s auction moment was swift, as he was swiftly secured by PBKS after Preity Zinta conferred with her team and placed the winning bid. With no other franchise vying for him, Shashank’s fate was sealed as the auctioneer’s gavel signified his acquisition by PBKS.
Having played 58 domestic T20 matches, Shashank has amassed 754 runs at an impressive strike rate of 137.34. The 32-year-old all-rounder represents Chhattisgarh at the national level and has previously plied his trade with SunRisers Hyderabad, Delhi Daredevils, and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, establishing himself as a seasoned campaigner in the league.
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