Title: Iyer’s popularity denies Inglis & Wadhera credit for win vs MI: Ashwin
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been filled with thrilling matches, and the Qualifier 2 between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) was no exception. PBKS emerged victorious, and their captain Shreyas Iyer played a crucial role in the win. However, according to PBKS spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, Iyer’s popularity denied the credit that Josh Inglis and Nehal Wadhera deserved for the team’s victory.
In an interview with a leading publication, Ashwin opined that while Iyer was instrumental in taking the game away from MI, it was Inglis and Wadhera who played the game-changing knocks. “Whenever they needed a boundary, Iyer got it. But the game-changing [batters were Inglis and] Wadhera,” he said. Ashwin also highlighted Inglis’s impressive 20-run over against Jasprit Bumrah in the powerplay, which was a significant turning point in the match.
Ashwin’s comments suggest that he feels Iyer’s popularity and reputation as a captain and batsman overshadowed the contributions of Inglis and Wadhera. While Iyer did play a vital role in the match, scoring 44 runs off 36 balls, Inglis and Wadhera’s innings were equally impressive. Inglis scored 35 runs off 24 balls, while Wadhera contributed 32 runs off 25 balls.
The fact that Ashwin chose to highlight Inglis and Wadhera’s performances suggests that he believes their contributions should not be overlooked. As a seasoned cricketer, Ashwin is well aware of the importance of teamwork and the role that each player plays in a team’s success. By calling out Iyer’s popularity, Ashwin is emphasizing the need to recognize the efforts of all players, not just the ones who get the most attention.
Ashwin’s comments also highlight the importance of balanced team performances. While Iyer’s contributions were undoubtedly valuable, Inglis and Wadhera’s knocks were crucial in taking the pressure off the bowlers and setting the tone for the rest of the innings. A balanced team performance, where each player contributes in their own way, is essential for success in the IPL.
Inglis, in particular, has been impressive in the IPL 2025, scoring 375 runs at an average of 37.50 and a strike rate of 148.38. His performances have been a significant factor in PBKS’s success this season, and Ashwin’s comments are a testament to his importance in the team. Wadhera, too, has been a valuable contributor, scoring 242 runs at an average of 24.20 and a strike rate of 120.50.
The PBKS team has been built around a strong core of players, with contributions from batsmen, bowlers, and all-rounders. Ashwin’s comments highlight the importance of recognizing the efforts of all players, not just the ones who get the most attention. By acknowledging the contributions of Inglis and Wadhera, Ashwin is emphasizing the need for a balanced team performance.
In conclusion, Ashwin’s comments suggest that Iyer’s popularity denied the credit that Inglis and Wadhera deserved for PBKS’s win against MI. While Iyer played a crucial role in the match, it was Inglis and Wadhera who played the game-changing knocks. Ashwin’s emphasis on recognizing the efforts of all players is essential for team success, and his comments highlight the importance of balanced team performances.
