Shikhar’s Injury: Embrace the Praise and Criticism, says Shashank Singh

Punjab Kings’ all-rounder Shashank Singh spoke exclusively to IANS about Shikhar Dhawan’s absence due to a shoulder injury, providing young cricketers an opportunity. PBKS captaincy was taken over by Sam Curran in the recent match against Rajasthan Royals. Shashank expressed confidence in the team’s performance despite being placed seventh in the points table, stating that the momentum of the tournament seems to be shifting.

Shashank mentioned, “Shikhar’s injury is part and parcel of the game. But it is also an opportunity for other players. No one can match the kind of experience Shikhar has but, in his absence, someone from the team will take that spot. There are young players in the team who are looking to grab the opportunity.”

Regarding handling pressure and social media reactions, Shashank shared insights on how he and his fellow teammates manage stress. He stated, “Sometimes we do yoga or cut down from social media for a day. We can’t go away from social media forever, but we can detach ourselves from it for the time being and then come back when you are in a good space. Fans praise and also troll. So even if it is good or bad, don’t take it to heart. Professional cricketers have learned to maintain balance with all such things over time.”

When asked about his cricket idol, Shashank mentioned, “I used to watch Sachin Tendulkar’s batting and when white ball cricket progressed so much, I started enjoying watching AB de Villiers. Apart from batting, his mental ability was interesting to see how he could read the bowler and play shots. AB seemed to me a different player in the white-ball circuit.”