'I'm close to playing for India' - Shashank Singh opens up making India T20I debut after IPL stints

Divy Dubey

'I'm close to playing for India' - Shashank Singh opens up making India T20I debut after IPL stints image

Shashank Singh's rise in Indian cricket has been steady but impactful. From playing local tournaments in Chhattisgarh to making his first-class debut in 2019, Shashank has quietly built a reputation as a dependable all-rounder.

His performances in the IPL - particularly with Punjab Kings, have turned heads. As India's T20I setup continues to evolve, Shashank now finds himself on the brink of earning the cap he has dreamed of for years.

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Shashank Singh's IPL journey and breakthrough moments

Shashank made his IPL debut in 2022 with Sunrisers Hyderabad, followed by stints with Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals. However, it was with Punjab Kings that he truly made his mark.

In the 2024 season, he scored an unbeaten 61* off 29 balls against Gujarat Titans, steering his team to a thrilling last-over win.

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The following year, Shashank repeated the heroics in the 2025 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, scoring 61* off 30 balls with six towering sixes, even though Punjab Kings narrowly lost.

With over 700 IPL runs and five half-centuries, Shashank has made his name as a reliable finisher and a player capable of turning matches single-handedly.

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Chasing the dream: India T20I cap in sight

In a recent interview with Sports Today, Shashank opened up about his dream of representing India. He spoke about staying motivated amid stiff competition and the pressure of performing consistently.

"I focus on competing with myself. When I measure myself against my own standards, there is no limit to what I can achieve. I let my performances, abilities, and match-winning impacts speak for why I should be in the Indian team," Singh said.

He reflected on his cricketing journey from youth tournaments to the IPL spotlight, adding, "Playing for India has been my dream since I started professional cricket. Yes, I'm close now and knocking on the door. I'm not afraid of competition. I believe the right moment will come when skill and luck align, and the selectors see me as the right fit."

What's next for Shashank Singh?

With the T20I squad evolving and selectors eyeing impactful players, Shashank's consistent IPL performances put him in strong contention for a national call-up. If selected, he could add depth to India's middle-order finishing options.

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Divy Dubey

Divy Dubey is a content producer for The Sporting News' India edition. He has a passion for cricket and is an avid fan of football. His work spans culture, media, and digital trends. With a background in research and a curiosity-driven approach, he enjoys crafting thoughtful, engaging stories that invite readers to see everyday topics in a new light.