'He connects instantly' - Nehal Wadhera on experience of playing under Shreyas Iyer's leadership

Punjab Kings (PBKS) have taken everyone with a new brand of cricket in IPL 2025. The franchise has some exciting players in the mix and one of those is the explosive Nehal Wadhera, who has already shown ability to play some big shots in the tournament. 

The left-handed batter from Punjab started his IPL career playing for the Mumbai Indians, making his debut in 2023. Though he was not retained by his former franchise, he was bought by the Kings and has displayed his potential in the initial few games.

Wadhera revealed how excited he was to play for "home team" Punjab Kings, also mentioning how he prepared for the season. The 24-year-old also talked about what PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting bring to the table.

“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 was truly 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,“ Wadhera told JioHotstar.

“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. 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. 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,” Wadhera concluded.

Wadhera has scored 114 runs at an average of 57 and strike rate of 156.16 in three games this season. His best knock in the tournament came against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in a losing cause where he scored 62 off 41.