Sport Is One Area Where Theres No Bias Or Reservation Based On Caste Or Age: Shashank Singh

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Punjab Kings cricketer Shashank Singh shared what keeps him motivated and energised during tense moments, as well as how he manages disappointing situations. He was last seen on the field during the IPL 2025 final in Ahmedabad, where his team finished runners-up as Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their first trophy. Shashank was very vocal about his aspirations and mentioned how his dream to represent India at the biggest stage keeps him motivated to do well. He spoke about his journey and growth over the years, and how his family played a key role in shaping his career as a cricketer. While my family has always been supportive, many others have also backed me throughout my career. All my coaches who have taught and trained me so far, as well as my teammates, have also played a part. However, my mum, dad, and sister have been the biggest supporters, and a lot of credit goes to them, Shashank told IANS in an exclusive interview. Looking back on my journey, I started playing for MP, then we moved to Bombay, and later I returned to Chhattisgarh. Eventually, I began gaining recognition in the IPL. Its been a long journey, and like every other cricketer, I faced many ups and downs. But I believe I have overcome them all, and I am currently in the right zone. My dream of representing the Indian national team is something I believe I am very close to achieving. I am working hard because cricket is all about dedication and discipline, and I feel I am on the right path, he added. Despite his impressive numbers in domestic cricket, the PBKS batter has not managed to break into the national side. Speaking on what might have went wrong, Shashank stated, My job is to deliver good performances and assist the team in winning. That has always been my motivation, to lead the team to victory. I cannot concentrate solely on my individual performance and the runs I score in each game, because cricket is a team sport. Ultimately, it matters how many matches I have helped the team win. To be very honest, I dont know why Im not a part of the national side yet. I dont have an answer to that. I think Im trying to tick all those required boxes at the highest level, at the domestic level, at any level I play cricket, where I learn and improve my game as a player. Shashank highlighted the importance of winning trophies in domestic cricket, adding, If you ask me whats going wrong or the missing link, I think it might be because my state hasnt won any championships yet. Players from other states have a championship title to their name, whether its the Vijay Hazare Trophy, the Ranji Trophy, or the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy; they win matches. I believe that helps them gain recognition at the highest level. My team doesnt have trophies yet, so there might be a 1% chance thats the reason. But besides that, I dont think I lack any attribute needed to represent India at the highest level. I have the qualities that an Indian player must possess, and I hope that dream turns into reality soon. Even after impressive performances at the IPL for Punjab Kings over the years, Shashank hasnt found his name in the Indian squad. When asked if that affects him mentally, he said, Obviously, I get disappointed. I think about the reasons and details for a few days and then move on. Its ultimately up to me how I perceive it, and my job is to perform well and help the team win. All you can do is follow the schedule and train properly, hoping to achieve the end goal. I am following the same process instead of banging my head and wondering why things didnt fall into place. Thats beyond my control. When asked how he copes with the pressure and disappointments, the Chattisgarh cricketer added, Its essential to stay strong mentally. Firstly, you should be grateful that youre playing cricket at a high level in a country where the competition is fierce. Thats always a motivating factor. Im not the first person to be here, nor will I be the last. Many have rightfully had their chance when they deserved it, and many will have in the future. You must always have belief. Ill never say that Ive always been talented. I worked hard to get here, and I believe in myself that I can do it. I always think Im the best when I step onto the ground, and that always motivates me to keep improving every day. The 33-year-old believes that age doesnt matter if a cricketers statistics show their true ability. He feels that selection depends on a player's merit, and that age cannot prevent anyone from reaching greatness. When asked how he copes with the pressure and disappointments, the Chattisgarh cricketer added, Its essential to stay strong mentally. Firstly, you should be grateful that youre playing cricket at a high level in a country where the competition is fierce. Thats always a motivating factor. Im not the first person to be here, nor will I be the last. Many have rightfully had their chance when they deserved it, and many will have in the future. You must always have belief. Ill never say that Ive always been talented. I worked hard to get here, and I believe in myself that I can do it. I always think Im the best when I step onto the ground, and that always motivates me to keep improving every day. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Age is nothing. People say age is just a number, but for me, its irrelevant and doesnt matter. There are numerous examples of players and athletes continuing to perform beyond a certain age and dominating the sport. If Im playing fast bowlers who bowl at a pace of 160 and not fearing them and performing well across departments, then I dont think age will play a role. If youre putting up stand-out performances and your stats do the talking, then age is literally nothing, he concluded. Article Source: IANS