In an interview ahead of the Indian Premier League 2025, Shashank Singh, the swashbuckling batter representing Punjab Kings for the second season in a row, had predicted that his team would achieve a top-two finish in the league stage. For a team that played their last playoffs more than a decade ago, this assertion came across as quite bold and perhaps unrealistic. The league stage is over now, and Punjab not only finished at the top of the table, but also qualified for the final, and Shashank too played his part. The numbers—289 runs in 16 matches—might undersell his influence this season, but ask anyone in the Punjab Kings, and they will tell you how crucial he has been as their designated lower-order hitter, one of the hardest roles to crack in the format. He started his season with a terrific cameo, scoring 44 off just 16 balls, which helped Punjab Kings make a winning start to the campaign. A few days later, his brilliant half-century against Chennai Super Kings helped Punjab get back to winning ways. After a brief lull, he roared again with a quickfire 59 against Rajasthan Royals that ensured not only a victory for Punjab, but also elevated their chance of a top-two finish. For a player whose acquisition in the auction last year stirred some drama, leading many to believe that Punjab Kings wanted another player with the same name, his performance has ensured that even if it was a case of mistaken identity, the team found gold in him.

In an exclusive interview with Man's World India, Shashank Singh talks about his relationship with Punjab Kings, his performance, and the turning point of his career.

You’ve started the season strongly with two match-winning knocks already. What has been your mindset this season?

The freedom given by the management, coach, and captain Shreyas has been key. Before the season, I wasn’t in great form during practice games, but discussions with the coach and captain helped. They backed me to express myself and play my game without pressure. This support, along with working on a few things with Ricky sir [Ricky Ponting] has been crucial.

How did it feel to be retained by Punjab Kings, especially after what happened in the auction last year? Was it an indication of your skill?

It felt good, to be honest. Last season didn’t go well, but being retained gave me a comfort zone with familiar people—management, coaching staff, and others. I knew the team would build around me, especially in the middle order. The trust shown by the team was relieving and made me very happy.

How hard is it to nail the finisher’s role in T20 cricket, and how do you maintain composure in that phase? What’s your preparation like?

The finisher’s role is tough because you rarely get time to settle in. No role in cricket is easy—openers face the new ball, and middle-order players deal with tough situations. Over the years, I’ve adapted to this role through experience in club and state cricket. For example, in the last match when we were 83 for 5, I knew I had to stay till the end. The presence of mind is what matters most, and that comes with experience.

In the last match, you played more of an accumulator role due to early wickets. Did you enjoy that, or do you prefer to attack from the word go

A: There was pressure, but Priyansh’s batting made my role easier. I just had to guide him while he was hitting the ball everywhere. His maturity at 23-24 years old was commendable. I’ve often batted in similar situations, like last April when the top order struggled. I was happy to contribute to the team’s victory in that match.

Q: How is the environment at Punjab Kings, especially with the new coaching team and captain, compared to last year?

It’s very relaxed and positive. With Shreyas and Ricky sir, it’s chill both on and off the field. We hang out in the team room, and there’s no negativity—no “ifs and buts” in our team’s dictionary. We’re fearless, expressing ourselves, which is the best thing in T20 cricket.

You’ve mentioned in the past that you stopped overthinking and being hard on yourself. What was the turning point for this calm, instinctive mindset?

A few years back, I was too hard on myself. A conversation with Mahi bhai two or three years ago helped—he said finishing 3-4 out of 10-14 IPL games is doing well, which gave me confidence and acceptance. After a tough game against Rajasthan Royals, where we needed 70 runs off 29 balls, I discussed with Shreyas, Ricky sir, and others. Sometimes, you have to accept the opposition bowled well, like Sandeep Sharma and Jofra did. Experience and guidance from Mahi bhai, Lara sir, and Ricky sir have helped me move forward.

Was this acceptance hard to achieve, and did you have to convince yourself to internalise it?

It was hard, and it still is. As Indians, we’re emotional about cricket, and it takes time to move on from poor performances. But words from Mahi bhai, Lara sir, Ricky sir, and Shreyas—who messages me when I’m down—have helped. Their support makes it feel like a family, which is comforting.

Is your father still as critical of your batting, and how has his approach shaped your work ethic?

He’s still the same, calling me at 8 a.m. even after late IPL matches to discuss what I did well or poorly and the bowlers I’ll face next. He watches all my matches and videos. I take the good points from him, but our coaching staff also helps with technical aspects. His love and care keep me grounded, and I’m glad to have him.

Moving from Mumbai to Chhattisgarh was a big decision. How did you manage self-doubt during tough times when opportunities were limited?

It was emotional leaving Mumbai, where I played junior and senior cricket and made friends. But I had to be practical—Mumbai’s XI was strong, and I wasn’t getting opportunities. Chhattisgarh, my home state, welcomed me, but as a developing state, it was hard to showcase my skills in knockout matches. There were moments of self-doubt, especially after a poor Ranji Trophy season, but my family kept me going, reminding me of my ability to play at the highest level.

Did you ever have a backup plan, or were you all-in on cricket?

I never had a backup plan. After a tough 2023 season without IPL and a poor Ranji Trophy, I considered playing in the US. That year was disheartening, but it made me realise what cricket meant to me. I worked harder mentally and physically, made a schedule, and with my family’s support, turned things around.

As a late bloomer, does the limited time left in your career affect your approach or patience?

Age is just a number. If I’m fit, winning games, and contributing to the team, I’m close to playing for the country, which is my ultimate aim. I’m fitter and more experienced now than in my early 20s. I surround myself with positive people who give me good vibes, so age never bothers me.

How has life changed for you in the last two years, especially after becoming a household name last season? Can you go out alone?

I can still go out, but in Bhopal, people recognise me. It feels good when they ask for pictures or autographs—it’s motivating. Cricket means so much in this country, and putting a smile on someone’s face through my performances is rewarding.

Who are your best buddies in the Punjab Kings dressing room?

The entire squad of 25, including the coaching, support, media, and content teams, is close-knit. It’s a relaxed environment where even young players like Pyla Avinash can chill with Shreyas or the owners. It’s rare to have such a vibe, and I hope it stays this way.

How do you stay calm in high-pressure situations when any ball can determine the match outcome?

I visualise different scenarios, like batting at 180 for 2 or 80 for 5, and plan accordingly. Thinking about the team first takes the pressure off individual goals. For example, against GT, Shreyas told me to go for boundaries in the last over, even though he was close to a hundred. In the last game at 80 for 5, I knew staying till the 20th over was key. Acceptance that you can’t score every match helps me stay calm.

There was a viral picture of you with Priety Jinta last season. What was your first reaction to meeting her, and how has her presence helped?

I’m still starstruck. At a recent team dinner, she spoke to us for hours, and I felt grateful to sit and talk with such a big celebrity. Her humbleness and the Instagram post with me meant a lot to me and my family. I’ll always be grateful for that.

What’s Shashank like outside cricket? 

I chill with friends and family in Bhopal when I’m not playing. I spend time at home, gossiping like a normal Indian, watching cricket videos, or planning vacations.

What do you miss most about home when you’re on tour for months?

I miss my new house in Bhopal, which we bought 5-6 months ago. I’ve hardly stayed there due to the Ranji Trophy and IPL camps. I also miss my family—mom, dad, sister, and nephew. I plan to stay home for a month after the IPL.

You seem like a well-rounded batsman. Are there any shots you’d like to add to your arsenal?

I’d love to master the scoop shot like Joss Buttler. Bowlers are now bowling stump yorkers to cramp me, so developing a smooth scoop shot would help my game. Otherwise, I’m happy reacting to the bowler and keeping things simple.