Shashank Singh took jokes and brickbats sportingly, never became a victim: Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta

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Preity Zinta , the co-owner of Punjab Kings , lauded the resilience and determination of Shashank Singh following his stellar performance in the thrilling victory against the Gujarat Titans . Despite facing criticism and jests after the IPL auction debacle, Shashank rose to the occasion when it mattered most.

In the gripping encounter on Thursday, the 32-year-old Shashank played an explosive innings, scoring an unbeaten 61 runs off just 29 balls to lead Punjab Kings to a remarkable three-wicket win over the Shubman Gill-led Titans in Ahmedabad. His exceptional knock ensured that Punjab Kings successfully chased down the challenging target of 200 runs with just one ball to spare.

Reports emerged that Punjab Kings had intended to retract their bid for Shashank during the IPL auction in Dubai last December. However, due to technicalities, the bid could not be withdrawn as the auctioneer had already concluded the bidding process.
Subsequently, the franchise clarified that Shashank was always a part of their plans, and the confusion arose from the presence of two players with the same name on the auction list.

“Today seems like the perfect day to finally talk about things that were said in the past about us (PBKS) at the auction. A lot of people in similar situations would have lost confidence, buckled under pressure or become de-motivated… but not Shashank!” wrote Preity on ‘X’.

Preity also praised the cricketer’s positive attitude and the way he backed himself following the confusion last year.

“He is not like a lot of people. He is truly special. Not just because of his skill as a player but because of his positive attitude & incredible spirit. He took all the comments, jokes and brick bats so sportingly & never became a victim.

“He backed himself and showed us what he is made of, and for that I applaud him. He has my admiration & my respect. I hope he can be an example to all of you when life takes a different turn & does not play according to script, for it’s not what people think of you that matters, but what You think of Yourself!

“So never stop believing in yourself like Shashank & I’m sure you will be Man of the match in the game of life.”

Shashank’s journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) commenced with the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) when he was drafted into the franchise in 2017. Following his stint with Delhi, he subsequently plied his trade with the Rajasthan Royals from 2019 to 2021, before joining the Sunrisers Hyderabad for the 2022 season.

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