PBKS’s Shashank Singh Believes Playoffs Are Within Reach After Crushing Victory over KKR

The Punjab Kings (PBKS) has thrashed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) by 8-wicket at the Eden Gardens on Friday. With this win, PBKS has kept their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 playoff hopes alive. Despite this incredible win, PBKS’s position in the points table isn’t that good but Shashank Singh believes they can still qualify for the playoffs.

Also Read: Yuvraj Singh’s entry in T20 World Cup 2024!

Shashank Singh Stars in Record Chase

While their current position in the IPL points table might suggest otherwise (PBKS sits at number 8 with only 3 wins in 9 matches), Shashank’s unbeaten knock of 68 runs off just 28 balls was a massive statement. His explosive inning, laced with 8 sixes and 2 fours, was a key factor in chasing down a mammoth target of 262 set by KKR.

We have witnessed 𝐇𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘 😱#KKRvPBKS #TATAIPL #IPLonJioCinema pic.twitter.com/juMisXttVm

— JioCinema (@JioCinema) April 26, 2024

Shashank revealed his strategy during the post-match presentation. He said that he observed the pitch’s behavior while in the dugout and noticed it offered good bounce. He planned to target most of the KKR bowlers but remained cautious against the experienced Sunil Narine, opting for singles and doubles. This approach paid off, allowing him to build his inning steadily.

Jonny Bairstow Unbeaten Century

Shashank also highlighted the importance of his teammate Jonny Bairstow’s unbeaten century at the other end. The experience and stability Bairstow brings were crucial in this record chase. “A big positive when Jonny supports you,” Shashank said. “We still have 5 matches to go, we’ll take it one match at a time and I believe that we can still qualify to the playoffs,” he added.

Earlier, KKR posted a massive total of 261 runs on the board, thanks to a brilliant opening partnership between Sunil Narine (71 runs) and Philip Salt (75 runs). Arshdeep Singh was the lone bright spot for the Punjab bowlers, managing to pick up 2 wickets.

This match will be remembered for a few reasons. Firstly, KKR’s score was the highest total ever chased down in IPL history. Secondly, Shashank’s knock was the fastest fifty (in terms of balls faced) for PBKS in the IPL. Finally, Jonny Bairstow’s century was his third in the IPL.

Can PBKS Pull Off a Playoff Miracle?

With five matches remaining in the season, PBKS faces an uphill battle to reach the playoffs. They need to win most, if not all, of their remaining matches and hope other results fall in their favour.