In the electrifying atmosphere of IPL 2025, Punjab Kings’ rising star Shashank Singh delivered a powerful performance against Chennai Super Kings, smashing a match-winning half-century. But beyond the numbers, the right-hander revealed that his recent form and confidence stem from none other than West Indian cricket legend Brian Lara.

In a post-match interview, Shashank praised Lara's mentorship, crediting the legendary batter for helping him unlock his mental game and sharpen his batting instincts in pressure situations.

A Knock That Turned the Game
The fixture between PBKS and CSK was a do-or-die clash, with both teams seeking to strengthen their playoff chances. CSK posted a competitive total, and the chase seemed daunting—until Shashank Singh took charge.

Coming in at a precarious stage, Singh anchored the innings with composure and flair. His fifty came off just 32 balls, laced with crisp boundaries and innovative strokeplay. More than just the runs, it was the confidence in his body language that turned heads.

Brian Lara’s Influence
Following the match, Shashank spoke candidly about the influence Brian Lara has had on his game since the start of the season.

“Brian Sir has been incredible. He doesn’t just teach you technique—he works on your mindset. He’s helped me believe in my abilities, especially in high-pressure situations,” Shashank said.

Lara, who is currently a mentor with Punjab Kings, has been actively involved in guiding the younger players, focusing on refining their approach and game awareness. For Shashank, the mentorship came at just the right time.

Mentorship in Action
According to team sources, Lara held multiple one-on-one sessions with Shashank during the training camps. He worked closely on the mental side of batting—timing pressure, reading bowlers, and developing a fearless attitude.

One training session that stood out was a simulation exercise where Lara had Shashank bat under ‘virtual’ chase conditions. The aim was simple—prepare him to execute under pressure. The results have started to show on the field.

From Struggler to Star Performer
Before this season, Shashank was considered a fringe player, often warming the bench or batting in the lower order. However, IPL 2025 has seen a remarkable turnaround in his fortunes.

In six innings so far, he has scored 214 runs at an average of 42.8 and a strike rate of 152. These numbers, while impressive, only tell half the story. The timing of his runs—often in tight matches—has made him one of Punjab’s most valuable assets.

Support from the Dugout
Punjab Kings skipper Shikhar Dhawan also praised Shashank’s performance, stating, “He’s been training hard and it’s finally paying off. His maturity in this innings was beyond his age.”

Coach Trevor Bayliss echoed the sentiment: “We always knew he had the talent. With Lara’s mentoring and his own hard work, he’s turned a corner.”

Fans and Pundits React
Social media was abuzz after Shashank's stellar performance. Fans celebrated his innings, while cricket experts were quick to point out how impactful quality mentorship can be in a player's development.

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan tweeted, “Shashank Singh – what a knock! A reminder of what belief and the right guidance can do. Credit to Brian Lara too!”

Lara’s Growing Legacy as a Mentor
While Brian Lara’s legacy as a batsman is etched in history, his role as a mentor in franchise cricket is now being written. From his earlier stints in commentary to his current work with PBKS, Lara’s insights have helped transform several players.

He has previously worked with teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad, but it’s at Punjab Kings where his mentorship seems to be bearing visible fruit.

What Lies Ahead for Shashank Singh?
With momentum on his side, Shashank now has the opportunity to cement his place in the PBKS batting order. Consistency will be key as the tournament enters its business end.

His performances could also open the door for national selection. While it's too early to predict, many believe a strong IPL campaign could earn him a spot in India’s T20 setup—especially with selectors favoring in-form, fearless finishers.

Conclusion
Shashank Singh’s standout knock against Chennai Super Kings was more than just a performance—it was a statement. Backed by legendary mentorship from Brian Lara, Singh has shown what belief, hard work, and strategic guidance can achieve.

As IPL 2025 progresses, all eyes will be on the young batter to see whether he can continue this golden run. If he does, both Punjab Kings and Indian cricket could have unearthed a real gem—nurtured in the shadow of a legend.