Matt Short IPL 2023 Review: Punjab Kings’ Power-Packed Top-Order Asset Australian opener Matt Short burst onto the IPL stage in 2023 with Punjab Kings, turning just 92 balls into 117 runs at a fiery strike rate of 127. Across six innings the right-hander peppered boundaries with 15 fours and four sixes, never letting the run-rate drop below a run-a-ball. His season-best 36 showcased the fearless approach that has made him a sought-after T20 specialist, and his 127 SR ranks among the highest for any debutant facing 90-plus deliveries last year. While primarily deployed as a pinch-hitting batsman, Short also rolled his arm over in three matches, conceding only 25 runs from four tight overs (economy 6.25) and keeping opposition batters guessing with subtle changes of pace. Although he is yet to claim his first IPL wicket, the control he offers gives Punjab Kings an extra bowling option on sluggish Indian tracks. With one season, one franchise and a growing reputation for quick runs, Matt Short has already stamped his identity as a 360-degree match-winner in the making. Expect bigger scores and more fireworks from the Punjab Kings opener when IPL 2024 rolls around.

David Willey’s IPL story is written through the ball, not the bat. Across 11 bowling innings for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2023, the left-arm seamer claimed six wickets, never once going for more than two in any spell. Operating at an impressive strike-rate of 36 balls per wicket and an economy of just 7.56, Willey kept a lid on scoring even at the death. His 216 deliveries cost only 272 runs, a testament to accuracy on Bengaluru’s batting-friendly tracks. While his batting flashes were brief—53 runs from 62 balls with seven boundaries—RCB valued him chiefly for the control and breakthroughs he delivered with the new ball and in the slog overs. Three seasons, two franchises, one clear role: Willey is the swing-and-pace insurance policy every T20 side covets.

Note: This overview is partially generated using AI and is based on statistical data. Please verify with official sources for complete accuracy.