Shashank and Ashutosh to get more time on the pitch: Haddin
Ahead of Punjab Kings’ (PBKS) upcoming match against Gujarat Titans (GT), Brad Haddin, the assistant coach for PBKS, discussed the team’s strategy and player performances. Haddin emphasized the team’s intention to provide more game time to Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma, two uncapped players who have unexpectedly topped the run-scoring charts for the Kings this season. Both players have been crucial in close matches, including a remarkable win against GT and nearly securing victories against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Mumbai Indians (MI).
In his pre-match press conference on April 20, Haddin praised the duo for their resilience and effectiveness in pressure situations.
Haddin“Shashank and Ashutosh have delivered some extraordinary performances under pressure. We aim to give them more time on the pitch, but we are careful not to overload them since they are still mastering their roles,” Haddin explained.
Haddin also highlighted the frequent close finishes in PBKS’s games this season, with six of their seven matches being decided in the final over. “We’ve been in a position to win the last three games, each of which was incredibly close. We need to find a way to turn these situations to our advantage,” he stated.
With team captain Shikhar Dhawan sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained in a match against SRH, Haddin acknowledged the significant impact of his absence.
Haddin“Shikhar is a massive loss for us. He’s been one of the most consistent openers in IPL history and was finding his rhythm when the injury occurred,”
He remains hopeful for Dhawan’s return, noting his recovery progress.
Haddin“Shikhar is healing well; we’ve seen positive signs in the past few days. We’ll decide on his participation on Sunday morning.”
As the Kings prepare for their next game, the focus is on ensuring the top order steps up to support what Haddin describes as an “outstanding” bowling unit, aiming to secure much-needed victories as the season progresses.
19:30 IST
