Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh reveals his all-time IPL XI; picks Yuzvendra Chahal as only spinner

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season approaches, the excitement among fans and players is at an all-time high. With teams in the final stages of their preparations, discussions around the greatest players to have ever graced the league have intensified.

Punjab Kings’ batter Shashank Singh names all-time IPL XI

In a recent podcast, Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh shared his all-time IPL XI, selecting a combination of some of the most decorated cricketers in the history of the tournament. His choices reflect a mix of consistency, match-winning ability, and impact on the IPL over the years. Shashank’s all-time IPL XI features a balanced mix of aggression, experience, and match-winning ability. While some selections might be debatable, his choices reflect a deep understanding of the league’s history and the impact certain players have had over the years. With an explosive top order, a solid middle order, world-class finishers, and a deadly bowling attack, this team would undoubtedly be a force to reckon with in any IPL era.

1. Opening Pair: Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit Sharma lead the charge

Shashank made a bold call by selecting Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit Sharma as his openers, overlooking prolific IPL scorers like Chris Gayle, David Warner and Faf du Plessis. While Tendulkar was not the highest run-getter in the tournament’s history, his impact during his IPL stint was undeniable, particularly in leading Mumbai Indians to success in the early years. Rohit Sharmaon the other hand, is an obvious pick, given his five IPL trophies as captain and his ability to anchor an innings or accelerate when required. Together, they form a formidable opening duo capable of setting the perfect foundation for the team.

2. No. 3: Virat Kohli – The undisputed anchor

There were no surprises at No. 3, as Shashank chose Virat Kohlithe leading run-scorer in IPL history. Kohli has redefined consistency in the league, particularly in the 2016 season when he amassed a staggering 973 runs in a single edition. His ability to control the innings, accelerate at the right time, and lead from the front makes him an indispensable part of any all-time IPL XI.

3. Middle Order: Suresh Raina and Ab de Villiers provide stability and firepower

For the middle order, Shashank picked two of the most impactful players in IPL history – Suresh Raina and AB DE VILLLIERS. Raina, often referred to as “Mr IPL,” was a vital cog in Chennai Super Kings‘ success, providing stability and aggression at No. 4. His ability to pace the innings and deliver in crucial matches made him one of the most reliable batters in IPL history. At No. 5, AB de Villiers, known for his unorthodox yet destructive batting, was an obvious choice. The South African legend’s ability to take apart bowling attacks with 360-degree stroke play and his knack for finishing games under pressure made him a fan favorite and a must-have in any all-time XI.

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4. Finishing touch: MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya add firepower

No all-time IPL XI would be complete without Ms Donaand Shashank rightly included him as the wicketkeeper-batter and finisher. Dhoni’s unparalleled ability to stay calm under pressure and finish games with a flourish makes him a legend of the league. He is not only one of the best captains in IPL history but also a game-changer with the bat. Alongside Dhoni, Shashank picked Hardik Pandyawho has established himself as one of the best all-rounders in the league. His ability to clear the ropes at will and chip in with crucial overs makes him a vital asset to any team.

5. Spin department: Yuzvendra Chahal leads the attack

For the spin-bowling department, Shashank went with the ever-reliable Yuzvendra chahal as the lone spinner in his XI. Chahal has been one of the most successful leg-spinners in IPL history, consistently picking up wickets in the middle overs and putting opposition batters under pressure. His ability to control the game and take wickets at crucial moments makes him a standout performer.

6. Pace battery: Jasprit Bumrah, Lasith Malinga and Sandeep Sharma form a deadly trio

In the fast-bowling department, Jasprit bumrah and Lasit According were easy choices. Bumrah, known for his pinpoint yorkers and ability to bowl under pressure, has been a game-changer for Mumbai. Malinga, one of the most feared pacers in IPL history, was instrumental in MI’s multiple title wins with his lethal death-over bowling. The surprise pick in Shashank’s XI was Sandeep Sharma. While Sandeep may not have the star power of Bumrah or Malinga, he has been a consistent performer over the years, troubling top batters with his swing and control.

Shashank’s performance for PBKS and retention for IPL 2025

Shashank had an impressive IPL 2024 season for PBKS, showcasing his power-hitting ability and finishing skills. He scored 354 runs in 14 matches at a striking average of 44.25 and an explosive strike rate of 164.65. His highest score of 68 came in a crucial run chase against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)proving his ability to handle pressure situations. Throughout the season, he smashed 28 fours and 21 sixes, making him one of PBKS’ most aggressive middle-order batters. His consistency and ability to accelerate in the death overs led to PBKS retaining him for INR 5.5 crore ahead of IPL 2025. Overall, with 7 catches in the field, he also contributed as a reliable fielder. His performances cemented his place as a key uncapped Indian player in Punjab’s setup for the upcoming season.

Shashank Singh picks his all-time IPL XI!🔥🏏 pic.twitter.com/C7V9d9f8cC

– Shubhankar Mishra (@Shubhankrmishra) March 17, 2025

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