Image Source: BCCI
[Saba Sports News] Shashank Singh was a standout during IPL 2024, despite a rocky start when Punjab Kings mistakenly claimed they had signed him post-auction. Clarifications followed, and the incident fueled Shashank’s determination, making him unstoppable at times in the tournament.
Batting in the middle order, he scored 354 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 164.25, playing a key role in Punjab’s victories. However, the 32-year-old was not selected for India’s upcoming series against Zimbabwe, despite many World Cup players being rested. Shashank remains undeterred, focusing on improving his bowling, fielding, and fitness to enhance his national team prospects. He sees this omission as a reality check and acknowledges the merit of those selected.
“Not at all disappointed. I’ve stopped expecting things from myself or anyone else. But it helped me know how much harder I have to work in the future to get there. My bowling, fielding, and fitness are a few things I have to work on. I get a reality check as well when these squads get announced—that I have to work so much if I have to compete with the best,” Shashank told InsideSport.
“When you see the squad, all the players deserve their place thoroughly. Players like Nitish (Reddy) and Riyan (Parag) have done exceedingly well in the domestic circuit and the IPL. I know that I’m somewhere near, but it’ll take some time for me to get noticed. In a good way, I’ll work even harder and make sure that I get recognized more during the selection meeting,” he added.