Nehal Wadhera Prepares for Crucial Role Against KKR in IPL 2023

Nehal Wadhera Discusses Middle-Order Preparation Ahead of KKR Clash

Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], April 24: As the Punjab Kings (PBKS) gear up to face the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), defending champions, on Saturday in Kolkata, batter Nehal Wadhera shared insights into his approach to batting in the middle order. He emphasized that he has trained himself since childhood to adapt to various game situations.

Addressing the media before the match at Eden Gardens, Wadhera noted that PBKS currently holds the fifth position in the standings with five victories and three defeats, totaling 10 points. In contrast, KKR is struggling at seventh place, having secured only three wins out of eight matches.

Reflecting on his past experiences, Wadhera stated, “In the last two years with Mumbai, my batting role was quite versatile. I’ve batted in different positions, from opening to batting at numbers two through six. My preparation has always been flexible, as I aim to perform well regardless of where I bat. This mindset has been ingrained in me since childhood, allowing me to handle any situation effectively. I believe this adaptability is crucial for my role this season.”

During the current season with PBKS, Wadhera has primarily batted at number five, occasionally at four, whereas with the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the 2023-24 season, he typically batted at six or seven.

Wadhera also discussed his interactions with head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer. He mentioned that his conversations with Ponting revolve around the expectations for his batting position. “I asked him directly about where he sees me batting, and he provided clarity. He also mentioned that my batting order could be flexible since I handle spin well, which I accepted and adjusted my preparations accordingly,” he explained.

He praised the training camps held in Dharamshala, stating that Ponting offered valuable tips that significantly boosted their confidence. “Those camps were instrumental in our preparation,” he added.

Wadhera expressed his appreciation for the camaraderie between Iyer and Ponting, noting that it fosters a strong team spirit. “When I joined Punjab Kings, I felt welcomed and part of a family. This supportive environment instills confidence in players, allowing us to play freely. I feel very comfortable here with Shreyas Iyer and Ricky Ponting,” he remarked.

Concluding his thoughts, he commended Iyer’s leadership, highlighting his strategic thinking and team-oriented mindset. “Shreyas is an excellent captain, and his ability to adapt field placements shows his commitment to the team’s success. Having a captain like him creates a positive atmosphere,” he concluded.