‘Amazing’: Ludhiana-born Nehal Wadhera on joining new IPL franchise Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings’ middle-order batsman Nehal Wadhera has expressed his excitement about joining Punjab Kings and reflected on his personal growth over the past two TATA IPL seasons.

“This year I’ve joined Punjab Kings, and I’m really looking forward to playing for my home team. Representing your home side is a special feeling for any player. When I was picked by Punjab Kings, it felt amazing… I got really emotional. I’m eager to contribute and help Punjab Kings lift the trophy this season. In the last two IPL seasons, I’ve focused on improving my weak areas—working specifically on the shots and deliveries that troubled me. My aim is to find more success this year and hopefully make this a breakthrough season,” said the Ludhiana-born 24-year-old.

Speaking about his mindset and form during the ongoing TATA IPL season, Wadhera reflected on his domestic performances. “We (Punjab) qualified for the domestic season in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and the Punjab team performed really well. My preparation was solid, and overall, it was a good domestic season for me. I’ve tried to carry forward the learnings from there into the IPL, so that I can continue to improve. The last two years in the IPL have been valuable for my growth. This year, my expectations remain aligned with my role—it’s about stepping up in tough and crunch situations, and helping the team move forward.”

Wadhera also shared his thoughts on working with Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting and the confidence they bring to the group. “The way he (Shreyas Iyer) instantly connected with all the players—I really liked it. The confidence he (Iyer) carries is remarkable. When a captain shows that kind of belief, it automatically lifts the morale of the team. If you look at their past together—Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting during their time at DC—it was a successful combination. And Ponting, being the legend he is, brings so much to the table. When I work with him at the nets, everything he says feels so positive. Even the negatives don’t register—they don’t seem to reach our ears. Being around him feels like a blessing.”

Wadhera recalled one of his most cherished knocks against CSK at Chepauk on May 6 in 2023:

“There was a moment that was very special for me. In the past two years, I made my maiden fifty against CSK at Chepauk. At that time, we were in a difficult situation—around 15 for 3—and from there, taking the team to a total of around 160 and scoring 60 off, I think, 50 balls was really important for me. I believe I played a crucial role for the team in that match. Had I gotten out early, I don’t think we would’ve reached that score. The preparations I’ve done since childhood helped me a lot in handling such pressure situations. That innings is one of the closest to my heart.”

Sports