Follow UsPunjab Kings (PBKS) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) shared a point each after the match at the Eden Gardens on April 26 (Saturday). However, PBKS openers entertained the fans with brilliant strokeplay as they got to over 200.
After starting slowly, PBKS openers Priyansh Arya (69 off 35) and Prabhsmiran Singh (83 off 49) put in 120 for the first wicket inside 12 overs. PBKS spin bowling coach Sunil Joshi believes Prabhsimran, who has been playing for PBKS since 2019, has shown more maturity in the Indian Premier League (IPL) this season.
"I think it's all about confidence. In the pre-season, how much volume he adds to his batting is very important. Of course, positive environment with (head coach) Ricky (Ponting) and the batting coaching staff has really done well," Joshi said after the match.
"He has been consistently performing in white-ball format as well. Last year also, he has shown consistency and the numbers show that. But this year, he has been more mature. He was part of an emerging team as well. So, that confidence also added to him."
Joshi credited Arya and Prabhsimran for taking calculated risks after assessing the conditions properly. "They are exciting players. Prabhsimran is a seasoned campaigner. He is more experienced. He has come up successfully with good plans for today. So, it's a long way ahead for both of them," Joshi said.
"I think the credit should be given to both of them. They batted according to the pitch conditions, took calculated runs, and used very positive approaches.
"Of course, at this level, it's very simple keywords -- situation, conditions, pitch conditions, how it behaves, and according to that, you can plan your shots. So, that was a good communication from the coaching staff.
"The communication is very clear from captain and coach, head coach and coaching staff also. That's why we invest in the players."
PBKS are currently fourth in the IPL 2025 points table with 11 points from nine matches. They will hope to consolidate their palce when they take on Chennai Super Kings (CSK) next on April 30 (Wednesday) in Chennai.