Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra, expressed disappointment with Punjab Kings‘ decision to not promote Shashank Singh in the batting order during their unsuccessful run chase against Mumbai Indians.

The five-time IPL champions set a target of 193 runs for the Punjab Kings in Mullanpur on Thursday. In response, the Punjab Kings were 49 runs for 5 wickets at the end of the seventh over. However, Shashank Singh (41 off 25 balls) and Ashutosh Sharma (61 off 28 balls) kept the home team in the chase. Despite the heroic fightback, the IPL 2014 runners-up fell just short by 9 runs after being bowled out for 183.

Aakash Chopra expressed dissatisfaction with the team’s management for their lack of faith in young players. Specifically, he criticized their decision to send Shashank Singh late. When he came out half of the team was already back in the pavilion and not many runs were on the board.

“When your team is 14/4, it seems like the match is unwinnable because four of your best players have already been dismissed. Shashank comes in during this dire situation with Jitesh still at the crease,” aid the former opener.

The former Indian opener questioned why Shashank was not promoted in the batting order. He also emphasized Shashank’s extensive experience in first-class cricket, noting that Shashank is not merely a finisher but a good batter.

“I have one question about your decision to designate Shashank as solely a finisher despite his strong batting and temperament. Given that he bats well in the longer format and has experience, why not move him up the batting order when he’s in good form, rather than limiting him to being just a finisher even when he could contribute more?” commented Chopra.

Shashank Singh has been Punjab Kings’ top scorer this year, scoring 187 runs in seven matches including one fifty. Though these numbers alone don’t reflect his current form, the right-hander has consistently provided vital cameos to close out innings.

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