The Indian Premier League (IPL) has revolutionized opportunities for up-and-coming talent in Indian cricket, serving as a vital platform for young players to showcase their skills on a big stage. With each season, the IPL brings several stories of underrated players making a name for themselves. Shashank Singh is one such underdog. The 33-year-old all-rounder was once considered just another domestic cricket player and is now a match-winner for Punjab Kings, ironically a team that bought him by mistake during the auction.
Shashank Singh, Hailing from Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, Singh was born on November 21, 1991. He moved to Mumbai to pursue his passion for cricket as a full-time profession in the city’s hyper-competitive cricketing environment. He got limited opportunities during his time in Mumbai, but his work ethic stood out. He went on to represent Chhattisgarh in the Ranji Trophy to spend more time playing the game. What he did during the tournament etched his name in the record books. He scored 150+ runs and a five-wicket haul against Manipur in 2023. A record that was matched only by legendary cricketers Alvin Kallicharran and Mike Procter.
The following year, he was picked up by the Punjab Kings management by mistake, having mistaken him for someone else. But that mistake for franchise proved to be a boon for Punjab Kings.
During the historic run chase against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), with Punjab chasing a massive target of 262 runs, Shashank played an explosive innings of 68* off 28 balls. Out of these 28 deliveries, eight of them were sent flying high into the stands by Singh.
While this wasn’t a one-off incident, his clutch unbeaten 61 off 29 balls against Gujarat Titans made heads turn of fans and critics alike. So far in this season of IPL 2025, Singh has scored 354 runs 14 games with a powerful strike rate of 164.65.
Due to his ability to remain calm yet aggressive during crunch situations and a utility bowler when the team needs him. He’s considered one of the best picks of the tournament, which isn’t bad considering someone who wasn’t even sure of getting picked up.
