Match 5 of the IPL 2025 season between Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings was a closely contested affair, with Shubman Gill's team appearing poised to secure victory despite facing a formidable target of 244 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium. However, the introduction of Vijaykumar Vyshak dramatically altered the game's dynamics, as he executed exceptional death bowling, leading the Shreyas Iyer-captained PBKS to a narrow 11-run triumph.

Vijaykumar Vyshak, a fast bowler from Karnataka, entered the match as an impact player during the 14th over of Gujarat Titans' innings. At 28 years old, he faced a challenging situation against formidable batsmen Jos Buttler and Sherfane Rutherford.

In a match that heavily favored the batsmen, Vyshak demonstrated the potential of a bowler who adheres to a strategic plan. He consistently delivered wide yorkers to Sherfane Rutherford, a tactic that proved effective when the left-handed batsman failed to make contact. Despite conceding three wides in the 17th over, the young bowler remained committed to his strategy.

The day following the match against Gujarat Titans, Vijaykumar Vyshak shared insights with Hindustan Times about the extensive preparation that contributed to his performance and how he is continually learning by training alongside Indian fast bowler Arshdeep Singh.

"After the 13th over, I was uncertain about my entry into the game. I initially thought a spinner might be brought in since they had bowled effectively. However, given the significant dew factor last night, I was informed that I would be brought in during the 13th over and possibly again later," Vyshak explained.

"The success of my execution was largely due to the freedom I was given by the captain, the bowling coach, and Arshdeep Singh, who encouraged me to play my game and give my all. I was confident that if I put in 100-110 percent effort, I could help secure a win for my team. When I stepped onto the field, I was determined to achieve victory for my team," he added.

The Karnataka fast bowler expressed his admiration for his senior teammate Arshdeep, whom he described as the ultimate master of yorkers. Arshdeep had provided him with valuable guidance during practice sessions prior to the Punjab Kings' inaugural match in IPL 2025 against Gujarat.

"I have been diligently practicing yorkers with Arshdeep Singh, which gave me confidence in executing them effectively. I first met Arshdeep during my tour with the T20I team in South Africa. At that time, we didn't discuss bowling much since he was actively playing, and I missed the opportunity to learn from him about yorkers," Vyshak explained.

"I have always regarded him as a role model because he consistently excels at bowling yorkers. He has a wealth of knowledge to share about the technique, and he has been incredibly supportive during our training sessions. He frequently advises me on the right mindset to adopt. They say that practice leads to perfection, and I have been striving to achieve that. His assistance has been invaluable," he continued.

Vyshak also mentioned that he has been focused on mastering yorkers for an extended period, dedicating time to this skill even during the domestic season leading up to the IPL.

"We don't experience an off-season since we participate in domestic cricket year-round. Therefore, we seize every opportunity to enhance our skills. Improving my yorkers has always been a priority for me, and I have consistently worked on it. I am truly pleased with my performance yesterday and aim to continue refining this skill," he stated.

What does Vyshak make of the saliva ban being lifted?

Prior to the commencement of the 18th edition of the IPL, the BCCI implemented two notable rule modifications. Bowlers were once again permitted to use saliva to maintain the shine of the ball. Additionally, the fielding team in the second innings was granted the option to request a ball change after the 10th over to address the impact of dew. Vyshak regards both alterations as crucial and asserts that bowlers can benefit from any assistance available, as the balance of the game increasingly favors batters.

"I don't believe there was any ball change because I entered the game late. By the time I came in, there had been no change at all. We were shining one side of the ball, and I felt it was deteriorating somewhat. The dew made it challenging, and we thought the conditions remained consistent since there was a bit of swing. Therefore, we decided to continue with the same ball, as it was difficult for the batters to settle in," Vyshak explained.

"Given that the game predominantly favors batters, any advantage we can gain is valuable. Even a 1 percent improvement from using saliva can be beneficial for bowlers if they maintain the shine on one side of the ball. The effectiveness of this strategy can vary depending on the playing conditions. However, it does provide that slight opportunity to attempt reverse swing later in the innings. From the first to the 20th over, batters tend to play in a singular manner, which presents a significant challenge for bowlers," he added.

Role of Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer

Ricky Ponting, the captain who led Australia to World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007, is currently coaching the Punjab Kings, a team captained by Shreyas Iyer. Iyer made a strong statement in the opening match by scoring an unbeaten 97, which contributed to the franchise achieving a total of 243 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 20 overs.

Iyer's strategy was evident as he opted not to pursue a century, instead encouraging Shashank Singh to continue aggressively to secure a formidable score.

"Shreyas is always calm and composed, and he consistently advises us to maintain that demeanor. He emphasizes that remaining calm allows you to understand your capabilities, which ultimately brings out your best performance. This is a significant lesson from him, especially for bowlers, as it can be challenging to stay composed while bowling and aiming to execute each delivery perfectly," Vyshak remarked.

"I believe his guidance has been incredibly beneficial. Additionally, Ricky's presence has transformed the team dynamics; since his arrival, the intensity of our practice sessions and fielding drills has significantly increased. Everything changed the moment he joined us. He has been outstanding and will always be regarded as a legend. We have much to learn from him, and I sincerely hope we can maintain this momentum," he concluded.

Read Also: Ishan Kishan on Rizwan: "If I Acted Like Him, People Would Talk"

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!