Nehal Wadhera made a significant impression on his debut for Punjab Kings, delivering a remarkable unbeaten 43 runs off just 25 balls against Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Stadium. Entering the match as the Impact Player during the chase, the left-handed batsman aggressively targeted the LSG bowlers, simplifying the run chase for his team. His outstanding performance included 4 sixes and 3 fours, helping PBKS enhance their net run-rate by successfully chasing the target with 22 balls remaining. He formed an unbroken partnership of 67 runs with captain Shreyas Iyer, who contributed an unbeaten 52, marking his second consecutive half-century for the Punjab Kings this season. At one point, it appeared that Wadhera's explosive batting might prevent Iyer from reaching his fifty.

Wadhera hit Shardul Thakur for two sixes and a four, bringing the required runs down to 16 from that over when Punjab needed 17 to win. He played the final ball to backward point, resulting in a dot ball. Iyer subsequently hit a six in the following over to secure his fifty and lead Punjab to victory.

After the match, Wadhera was questioned about playing a dot ball to allow Shreyas to reach fifty after the scores were tied, but the young player clarified that it was not part of the strategy.

"That wasn't the plan actually; I was looking to play the shot," Wadhera explained to the broadcasters.

He expressed his appreciation for his teammates' collective effort, noting that the victory was crucial as Punjab secured their second consecutive win.

"We needed this win as well. Shreyas bhai and everyone performed exceptionally well, particularly the bowling unit, and Prabhsimran's batting was outstanding. We are pleased to have achieved this victory today," he remarked.

Having played the last two seasons with Mumbai Indians, Wadhera mentioned that he did not feel particularly nervous about his debut for Punjab, as he was uncertain about being selected to play.

"I wasn't very nervous, but I also didn't know I was playing today. I only brought one kit. I found out later that I was in the lineup. When I went in to bat, I knew I had to play my shots," he added.

“Shreyas Iyer was telling me things…”

The 24-year-old expressed high regard for Iyer's performance both as a batsman and as a team leader. He also mentioned that the captain's guidance during their partnership was beneficial to him.

"Shreyas bhai's batting was truly exceptional, and all the credit goes to his leadership and the way he inspires our confidence. His advice to play my natural game and maintain my rhythm was invaluable," he stated.

Wadhera also spoke about Punjab's head coach, Ricky Ponting, whom he referred to as the best coach he has had the privilege to learn from.

"Without a doubt, he is one of the finest coaches I have ever worked with—I've never encountered any negativity from him. When a coach offers such encouraging feedback, it significantly enhances your confidence," he concluded.

Read Also: 'Shreyas Iyer didn't get credit...': Gavaskar's fiery takedown of KKR's IPL 2024 title victory

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