Shashank Singh leads revolt against Shreyas Iyer, demands PBKS full-time captaincy

Punjab Kings (PBKS) middle-order batter Shashank Singh stepped in as stand-in captain for Shreyas Iyer in the recent IPL 2025 clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR). Shashank led the team to a victory in a crucial match of the tournament, showcasing his leadership potential and making a lasting impact.

He took over captaincy for Punjab Kings during the second innings at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Sunday, May 18. Shreyas Iyer was substituted out at the innings break after PBKS posted a total of 219 runs. Left-arm spinner Harpreet Brar came in as an impact substitute in the playing XI.

Shashank Singh Becomes First Chhattisgarh Player to Captain in IPL

Rajasthan Royals got off to a flying start in their chase of 220 with aggressive hitting from openers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi during the powerplay. However, a calm approach from stand-in captain Shashank Singh turned the tide in Punjab Kings’ favor, sealing a thrilling 10-run win in Jaipur.

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Shashank became the first cricketer from Chhattisgarh to captain an IPL side for a full innings. He is also the first Indian player without international experience to do so in the league's history. The right-handed batter also proved his skills with the bat. He has backing from Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting.

Shashank Singh Smashed Unbeaten 59 off 30 Balls

Shashank Singh scored an unbeaten 59 off just 30 deliveries, including five fours and three sixes, at a strike rate of 198. Singh added a crucial partnership with Nehal Wadhera, who scored 70 off 37 balls. He was one of only two players to be retained by the franchise ahead of the 2025 IPL mega auction.

The 33-year-old has been consistent throughout the season, scoring 273 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of over 151. He has smashed two fifties in IPL 2025. The batter continued the form he showed last year when he scored 354 runs in 14 innings at a strike rate of 164, including two half-centuries.

I Can Lead, Win Championship - Shashank Singh

In a conversation with CNN-News18 Cricketnext last year, Shashank Singh expressed openness to leading the IPL franchise if the team’s management deemed him fit for the role. The 33-year-old shared his success captaining in the DY Patil T20 tournament.

“Honestly, I don’t know much about it (chances of being included in the PBKS leadership group). I have been leading in the DY Patil T20 tournament for five years and touchwood, I’m doing good so far," Shashank had said.

"Even for Chhattisgarh, if the management considers me capable of leading the side, I will accept it happily. I feel that I have the ability to lead a side and win a championship. Similarly, if Punjab Kings want to try me as captain, I will definitely grab that opportunity with both hands and make proper use of it. I will be grateful but not expecting anything."

“However, the responsibility on my shoulder doesn’t change at all. Be it an uncapped player last year or an uncapped retention now, the job is to go out and give my 110% and make the team win," he added.

Also read: Lungi Ngidi OUT of IPL 2025 playoffs; Zimbabwe Pacer named replacement by RCB