Title: Iyer’s popularity denies Inglis & Wadhera credit for win vs MI: Ashwin
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a platform that brings together the best cricketing talents from around the world. The 2025 edition of the tournament has been no exception, with some exciting matches and thrilling performances. One such match was the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, where Punjab Kings (PBKS) defeated Mumbai Indians (MI) in a nail-biting encounter. The win was largely attributed to the heroics of PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, who scored a crucial half-century to help his team reach the final.
However, CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has recently opined that Iyer’s popularity may have denied the credit that Josh Inglis and Nehal Wadhera deserve for the win. In an interview, Ashwin said, “Whenever they needed 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.”
Ashwin’s comments may come as a surprise to many, given Iyer’s impressive performance in the match. However, the veteran spinner has a point. Inglis and Wadhera did play crucial roles in PBKS’ win, and their contributions were often overshadowed by Iyer’s heroics. Inglis, in particular, had a fantastic day at the office, scoring 35 off just 23 balls and playing a key role in PBKS’ charge towards the target.
Inglis’ 20-run over against Jasprit Bumrah was a particular highlight of the match. The young batter showed no signs of nerves as he dispatched Bumrah’s deliveries to all corners of the ground. His aggressive approach helped PBKS to accelerate the scoring rate and set the stage for Iyer’s late flourish.
Wadhera, too, played a crucial role in PBKS’ win. The young batter scored 27 off 18 balls and provided valuable support to Inglis during PBKS’ chase. His aggressive strokeplay and ability to rotate the strike helped PBKS to build partnerships and put pressure on the MI bowlers.
Ashwin’s comments are a testament to the importance of teamwork in cricket. While Iyer’s performance was undoubtedly impressive, it was the collective efforts of the PBKS batsmen that ultimately led to their win. Inglis and Wadhera’s contributions may have been overshadowed by Iyer’s heroics, but they played crucial roles in the match and deserve credit for their efforts.
In fact, Ashwin’s comments may also be seen as a warning to the PBKS team management not to rely too heavily on Iyer’s batting. While Iyer is an excellent player, he is not immune to failures. The PBKS team management must ensure that they have a strong support cast to help Iyer in case he has an off-day.
In conclusion, Ashwin’s comments highlight the importance of teamwork in cricket. While Iyer’s performance was impressive, it was the collective efforts of the PBKS batsmen that ultimately led to their win. Inglis and Wadhera’s contributions may have been overshadowed by Iyer’s heroics, but they played crucial roles in the match and deserve credit for their efforts.
