- Tue, March 15, 2022
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The Punjab Kings (PBKS) ramped up their IPL 2025 preparations with an electrifying intra-squad practice match at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. In a game that showcased powerful batting performances and promising signs for the upcoming tournament, Shreyas Iyer’s Team Shreyas emerged victorious in a run-fest under the floodlights. The clash provided fans and team management with crucial insights into player form, team combinations, and potential strategies ahead of their IPL campaign.
Punjab Kings Intra-Squad Practice Match
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mohali (Mullanpur) – 19 March 2025
Team B: 207/6 (20 overs; S Iyer 85, V Vinod 26*; S Singh 2-38)
Team A: 175 all out (17 overs; P Arya 72, P Singh 66; A Singh 2-22)
Result: Team 1 won by 32 runs
Shreyas Iyer’s Explosive 85 Lays the Foundation for Team Shreyas’ Big Total
Shreyas Iyer, leading Team Shreyas, was in sensational form as he delivered a blistering 85 off just 41 balls, setting the tone for his side’s innings. The PBKS captain looked confident from the start, dispatching bowlers to all parts of the ground with effortless stroke play. His commanding innings not only reaffirmed his leadership but also sent a strong message about Punjab Kings’ aggressive intent this season.
Iyer was well-supported by wicketkeeper-batsman Vishnu Vinod, who provided the finishing touches with a fiery unbeaten 26 off 10 balls. Their combined efforts propelled Team Shreyas to a formidable total of 207 in their allotted 20 overs, giving Team Ponting a stiff target of 208 to chase.
Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh’s Scintillating Stand Keeps Team Ponting in the Hunt
Chasing a daunting target, Team Ponting’s opening pair of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh launched a ferocious attack. Priyansh, a highly-rated young talent, justified his selection with a stunning knock of 72 off just 31 balls, striking at an explosive rate. His partner, Prabhsimran Singh, was equally destructive, scoring a well-paced 66 off 42 balls, proving his reliability at the top order.
Their fearless approach rattled Team Shreyas’ bowlers, keeping the required run rate in check and raising hopes of a thrilling chase. However, once the opening pair was dismissed, the innings began to falter. Wickets tumbled in quick succession, and despite a late surge by Vishnu Vinod—who switched sides as an Impact Player and scored a quickfire 26*—Team Ponting eventually folded for 175 in 17 overs, falling short by 32 runs.
Arshdeep Singh and Shashank Singh Shine with the Ball
While the match was dominated by batting fireworks, a couple of bowlers managed to make an impact. Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh once again proved his worth as Punjab’s bowling spearhead, delivering an exceptional spell of 2/22 in four overs. His crucial breakthroughs in the second innings slowed down Team Ponting’s charge just when they were gaining momentum.
For Team Ponting, all-rounder Shashank Singh made his mark with the ball, picking up 2 wickets for 38 runs. His unexpected but valuable contribution provided much-needed breakthroughs, keeping Team Shreyas from pushing their total beyond 220. For a team that has often struggled with sixth-bowling options, Shashank’s spell was an encouraging takeaway.
Key Takeaways: Form, Strategy, and Selection Dilemmas for IPL 2025
Punjab Kings’ intra-squad match highlighted some crucial form guides and lineup considerations ahead of IPL 2025. One of the biggest positives was the red-hot form of Shreyas Iyer. His match-winning knock reinforced his ability to anchor and accelerate the innings, making him a crucial No. 3 batter for the franchise. His leadership on the field also indicated a strong and confident approach under his captaincy.
The young domestic duo of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh also made a compelling case for their inclusion in the starting XI. Both players displayed an attacking mindset, and their successful partnership strengthens Punjab Kings’ case for an all-Indian opening pair. The team management now faces a tough decision—whether to back the domestic pair or include overseas wicketkeeper Josh Inglis at the top.
Another major talking point was the performance of Vishnu Vinod, who contributed quick runs for both sides. His ability to accelerate at the death makes him a strong candidate for the finisher’s role or as an Impact Player, giving Punjab Kings flexibility in their batting lineup.
On the bowling front, Arshdeep Singh’s form was a significant boost, reaffirming his role as the team’s pace spearhead. With the likes of Lockie Ferguson and Marco Jansen also available, PBKS looks set to field a strong fast-bowling attack. Yuzvendra Chahal, another marquee signing, had a quiet outing, but his experience will be crucial in high-pressure IPL matches.
Punjab Kings’ Bold Approach Under Ricky Ponting
The practice match also gave a glimpse of Punjab Kings’ aggressive batting philosophy under head coach Ricky Ponting. The team’s ultra-attacking approach was evident, with almost every batsman looking to dominate from the outset. This aligns with Ponting’s trademark aggressive style and suggests that PBKS will go all-out in their batting approach this season.
The match also emphasized the importance of adaptability. The role of all-rounders like Shashank Singh and Sikandar Raza in providing balance to the side remains crucial, and the management will likely continue experimenting with different combinations to ensure the best playing XI.
Punjab Kings Eye IPL 2025 Opener Against Gujarat Titans
With just a few days remaining before Punjab Kings kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Gujarat Titans on March 25, this practice match served as an ideal preparation. The team appears to be in high spirits, with strong individual performances and positive energy in the camp. The competition for spots in the playing XI is intense, a sign of a healthy and motivated squad eager to make an impact this season.
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