Matthew Hayden Compares PBKS Star Prabhsimran Singh to MS Dhoni’s Explosive Power
In a dazzling display of power-hitting, Punjab Kings’ opener Prabhsimran Singh earned high praise from former Australian batting legend Matthew Hayden following his breathtaking knock of 91 runs off just 48 balls against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Dharamsala on Sunday. With Punjab Kings eyeing a crucial spot in the IPL playoffs, Prabhsimran’s innings, studded with seven sixes and six boundaries at a staggering strike rate of 189.58, powered his team to a commanding total of 236/5, paving the way for a much-needed victory.
Hayden, a key figure in Australian cricket and a former Chennai Super Kings stalwart, didn’t hold back in his admiration for the 24-year-old uncapped talent. Drawing a striking comparison, he likened Prabhsimran’s raw power and fearless approach to a young MS Dhoni, the iconic Indian captain known for his match-finishing sixes. ‘Back in 2010, there was a young MS Dhoni launching balls in the last over of the day. Prabhsimran has similar attributes. He has wonderful bat speed and a solid base. He isn’t that tall, so he can maneuver the ball into gaps, and he’s absolutely fearless,’ Hayden remarked during the mid-innings break on broadcast.
Hayden furtherhighlighted Prabhsimran’s control over the LSG bowling attack, stating, ‘You could see how he took on their deliveries. He was in complete command, forcing the bowlers into mistakes.’ This performance has justified Punjab Kings’ decision to retain Prabhsimran as an uncapped player ahead of the IPL auction, showcasing his growth into a consistent match-winner this season.
Punjab’s towering total was a team effort built on solid partnerships. After an explosive start, Josh Inglis chipped in with a rapid 30 off 14 balls, including four sixes. Prabhsimran then anchored a crucial 78-run stand for the third wicket with captain Shreyas Iyer, who played a blistering knock of 45 off 25 balls with five fours and two sixes. The momentum continued with a fiery 54-run fifth-wicket partnership alongside Shashank Singh, who remained unbeaten on 33 off 15 balls, smashing four boundaries and a six to propel Punjab past the 230-run mark.
In reply, LSG faltered under pressure, managing only 199/7 in their 20 overs despite a valiant effort. Punjab’s bowlers, backed by the confidence of a massive total, held their nerve to seal the game, boosting their playoff hopes with two vital points. This win marks Punjab Kings’ resurgence in the tournament, having won three of their last five matches in the IPL 2023 season, with Prabhsimran emerging as a standout performer.
Receiving the Player of the Match award, Prabhsimran reflected on his mindset during the post-match presentation. ‘This is a very good knock, and these two points mean a lot to us. I’m happy it came in a winning cause. I got set after being dropped early, so I wanted to capitalize on that mistake. Initially, I couldn’t read the wicket, but once I settled, I knew we needed to aim for 200. Every game, someone from our batting unit steps up, and it’s great that we’re winning,’ he said with a calm assurance that belies his years.
As the IPL 2023 playoffs race heats up, Prabhsimran Singh’s meteoric rise continues to turn heads. With mentors like Hayden drawing parallels to legends like Dhoni, the young opener seems poised to carve his own legacy in Indian cricket. For Punjab Kings, this victory is more than just a win—it’s a statement of intent. Will Prabhsimran continue to be their trump card? Only time will tell, but for now, Dharamsala echoes with the sound of his thunderous sixes.