Iyer’s Popularity Denies Inglis & Wadhera Credit for Win vs MI: Ashwin
In the thrilling IPL 2025 Qualifier 2, Punjab Kings (PBKS) emerged victorious against Mumbai Indians (MI), thanks to some exceptional performances from their batters. However, in a surprising move, PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer hogged the spotlight, much to the dismay of CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Ashwin, who has been vocal about his opinions on various cricketing topics, recently expressed his thoughts on the match, stating that Iyer’s popularity denied the credit that Josh Inglis and Nehal Wadhera deserve for their outstanding contributions to the team’s win.
In a recent interview, Ashwin emphasized that while Iyer did play a crucial role in the match, it was Inglis and Wadhera who were the game-changers. “Whenever they needed a boundary, Iyer got it. But the game-changing [batters were Inglis and] Wadhera,” he said. Ashwin also pointed out that Inglis played an impressive 20-run over against Jasprit Bumrah in the powerplay, which significantly impacted the match’s outcome.
Ashwin’s statement has sparked a debate among cricket enthusiasts, with many questioning whether Iyer’s popularity overshadowed the contributions of Inglis and Wadhera. While Iyer did score an impressive 54 runs off 45 balls, his innings paled in comparison to the 44 runs off 23 balls scored by Inglis and Wadhera’s 37 runs off 25 balls. Both Inglis and Wadhera played crucial roles in PBKS’ win, particularly during the middle overs when the team was struggling to build momentum.
Ashwin’s remarks are not without merit, as Inglis and Wadhera’s performances were vital in taking the pressure off Iyer and allowing him to play his natural game. Inglis, in particular, was exceptional, as he not only scored runs but also played with a good amount of responsibility, which allowed PBKS to build a strong foundation. Wadhera, on the other hand, played with a lot of flair, hitting some beautiful shots during his innings.
The debate surrounding Iyer’s popularity and the contributions of Inglis and Wadhera is not new. In the past, there have been instances where a team’s captain has hogged the spotlight, often at the expense of other players who have made significant contributions to the team’s success. In this case, Iyer’s impressive performance may have overshadowed the efforts of Inglis and Wadhera, which is unfortunate given the latter’s crucial roles in PBKS’ win.
Ashwin’s comments have also sparked a discussion about the importance of recognizing the contributions of all players in a team, rather than just focusing on the captain or star players. In a team sport like cricket, every player plays a crucial role, and it is essential to acknowledge and appreciate their efforts, regardless of their position in the team.
In conclusion, Ashwin’s remarks are a timely reminder of the importance of recognizing the contributions of all players in a team. While Iyer’s performance was impressive, it is essential to acknowledge the efforts of Inglis and Wadhera, who played vital roles in PBKS’ win against MI. As Ashwin aptly put it, “Whenever they needed a boundary, Iyer got it. But the game-changing [batters were Inglis and] Wadhera.” It is essential for cricket fans and experts alike to recognize the contributions of all players and not just focus on the captain or star players.
