IPL 2023: "I Will Just Play The Game Based On Our Team Goals, Based On What The Team Demands" - Punjab Kings Skipper Shikhar Dhawan Says Ahead Of Upcoming IPL

The Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction will take place in Kochi on December 23rd. Following their disappointing performance last season, the Punjab Kings have made a few changes to their squad and coaching staff. Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has taken over as captain of the Punjab Kings, and Trevor Bayliss has been named head coach for the upcoming season.

Shikhar Dhawan’s prominence as a senior cricketer has grown in recent years. The Southpaw has led the Indian squad in three One-Day International (ODI) series since 2021, emerging the winner in all three comprehensively with seven wins in nine games. He will now lead the Men in Blue when they take on the Kiwis in a three-match ODI series beginning on Friday, November 25.

I Don’t Feel Any Fear About Losing The Job – Shikhar Dhawan

Shikhar Dhawan, who was recently appointed as the new captain for the Punjab Kings (PBKS), has stated that he is not concerned about losing his position as skipper in the team and will do whatever is necessary for the team to succeed.

“Jobs come and go, no worries. We come into the world empty-handed and leave empty-handed. All this just remains here. I don’t feel any fear about losing the job. Just because I’m the captain, I don’t want to put that load on myself, saying “Okay, I have to do it this way or that way. I will just play the game based on our team goals, based on what the team demands, what it needs,” Shikhar Dhawan was quoted as saying to ESPN Cricinfo.

“Our last season did not go as well as we would have liked. I knew there was a possibility. So I thought I will take the opportunity and bring the best energy to the table and take things forward and make an impact,” he added.

Dhawan has backed PBKS players to be aggressive and play freely. He said, “I remember even last year people saying Punjab Kings had a very strong and balanced side, at least on paper. This time we will be strong both on paper and on the ground. I will make sure that the support staff and I create an environment where the players are comfortable. I want my boys to be themselves while also understanding their responsibilities. The IPL trophy is not a challenge too far out of our reach.”

PBKS finished sixth in the IPL 2022 standings with seven wins and seven losses. This season, the franchise is taking a different direction and has revamped its coaching staff, including the departure of head coach Anil Kumble. They have a purse of 32.2 crores for the upcoming IPL mini-auction.

Also read: IND vs NZ: “He’s Been A Gun Player In ICC Tournaments, Somebody Who Rises To The Occasion” – Dinesh Karthik Backs Shikhar Dhawan For ODI World Cup 2023