Title: Iyer’s Popularity Denies Inglis & Wadhera Credit for Win vs MI: Ashwin
In the recent IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, Punjab Kings (PBKS) stunned Mumbai Indians (MI) to secure a spot in the finals. The win was a result of a clinical performance from the PBKS team, with several players emerging as game-changers. However, according to CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, the popularity of PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer has denied the credit that Josh Inglis and Nehal Wadhera deserve for the win.
In an interview with a leading publication, Ashwin expressed his thoughts on the matter, stating, “Whenever they needed a boundary, Iyer got it. But the game-changing [batters were Inglis and] Wadhera.” He further added, “Inglis played a 20-run over against Jasprit Bumrah in the powerplay, which was a crucial moment in the game.”
Ashwin’s comments are a testament to the impact that Inglis and Wadhera had on the game. Inglis, in particular, was instrumental in PBKS’ success, scoring 43 runs off just 27 balls, including two fours and three sixes. His aggressive batting style and ability to take the game away from MI were crucial in setting a strong foundation for the rest of the PBKS batting line-up.
Wadhera, on the other hand, played a more composed inning, scoring 32 runs off 25 balls, including three fours and a six. His patient approach and ability to rotate the strike allowed the PBKS innings to build momentum, which ultimately proved to be the difference between the two teams.
Iyer, who scored 40 runs off 35 balls, including five fours, was certainly a key player in the PBKS victory. However, Ashwin’s comments suggest that his performance was overshadowed by the impact that Inglis and Wadhera had on the game. This is a fair point, as both Inglis and Wadhera played crucial roles in setting up the PBKS victory, while Iyer’s batting was more steady and consistent.
Ashwin’s comments also highlight the importance of recognizing the contributions of all players in a team’s success. In modern cricket, it is not uncommon for a single player to steal the limelight and take the credit for a team’s win. However, as Ashwin’s comments demonstrate, there are often several players who make significant contributions to a team’s success.
This is particularly true in the context of the IPL, where the format is designed to encourage aggressive batting and quick scoring. In such a format, it is often the players who can take the game away from the opposition with their aggressive batting that receive the most attention and credit. However, as Ashwin’s comments suggest, there are often several players who play crucial roles in a team’s success, even if they do not necessarily receive the most attention.
In conclusion, Ashwin’s comments highlight the importance of recognizing the contributions of all players in a team’s success. While Iyer was certainly a key player in the PBKS victory, it is clear that Inglis and Wadhera played crucial roles in setting up the win. As the IPL continues to evolve and become more competitive, it is essential that we recognize and celebrate the contributions of all players, rather than simply focusing on the most popular or high-scoring players.
