Punjab Kings’ batting coach Wasim Jaffer has lauded opening batter Prabhsimran Singh for his scintillating batting display during their thrilling five-run win over Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday.
Prabhsimran provided the Punjab Kings an explosive start as he continued his impressive form to notch up his maiden IPL fifty off just 28 balls.
Prabh da Jazba, mashallah! 🤩
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) April 5, 2023
Sadda 🦁 scores his first-ever 5️⃣0️⃣ in #TATAIPL#RRvPBKS #JazbaHaiPunjabi #SaddaPunjab #TATAIPL pic.twitter.com/QG2GNwLAOT
The 22-year-old’s 60-run knock off 34 balls powered the Kings to a huge total of 197/4 in 20 overs. Later, PBKS restricted RR to 192/7 in their allotted overs to register a nail-biting win.
“Apart from this season, Prabhsimran never got a consistent run. Jonny Bairstow, KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal have batted at these spots before. And this time, he’s got his chance and has scored consistent runs, so he’s been a fabulous player,” Jaffer said at the post-match conference.
“But no matter how good you are, you need a little consistent run, and play a lot more fearlessly. He’s always been a very good player. And he’s come good, which is a good sign since we don’t have Bairstow. I’m really happy with him,” the former India cricketer added.
Jaffer also provided an injury update on Punjab Kings’ star batter Bhanuka Rajapaksa, who was forced to retire hurt after Shikhar Dhawan’s drive hit him in the forearm on his right hand at the non-striker's end.
“Rajapaksa had a muscular injury. Hopefully, he should be alright by the next game,” Jaffer stated.
With two wins in two games, the Shikhar Dhawan-led Punjab Kings will aim to continue their winning momentum when they square off against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Sunday, April 9.