Nehal Wadhera aims for breakthrough IPL season with Punjab Kings, calls it emotional journey

“In the past two IPL seasons, I’ve concentrated on strengthening my weak points—focusing on the shots and deliveries that gave me trouble. This year, my goal is to achieve greater success and hopefully turn it into a breakthrough season,” he explained.

Hyderabad: Punjab Kings’ Nehal Wadhera said representing your home side was a special feeling for any player.

“When I was picked by Punjab Kings, it felt amazing—I was truly emotional. I’m eager to contribute and help Punjab Kings lift the trophy this season,” Wadhera said in a chat with Jio star.

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“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,” he explained.

“We 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,” Wadhera said about his mindset and form.

“I’ve tried to carry forward the learnings from there into the IPL so I can continue to improve. I’ve spent the last two years in the IPL, and they’ve been valuable for my growth,” he said.

“This year, my expectations remain aligned with my role—it’s about stepping up for the team in tough and crunch situations, and helping us move forward,” Wadhera said.

“The way he (Shreyas Iyer) instantly connected with all the players—I really liked it. The confidence he (Shreyas Iyer) carries is remarkable. When a captain shows that kind of belief, it automatically lifts the morale of the team,” he said.

“If you look at their past together—Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting during their time at DC—it was a successful combination. And Ricky Ponting, being the legend he is, brings so much to the table.,” Wadhera said.

“When I work with him in 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,” he said.