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.

Afghanistan left-arm quick Fazalhaq Farooqi has quietly emerged as one of the IPL’s most economical powerplay enforcers after three seasons with Sunrisers Hyderabad and now Rajasthan Royals. Across 12 bowling innings the 23-year-old has snapped 6 wickets, never going for more than 2 scalps in a match but consistently cramping batters with a miserly economy of 10.32 on some of the league’s flattest decks. Operating at a brisk strike-rate of 42.33 balls per wicket, Farooqi has sent down 254 deliveries and conceded only 437 runs, figures that underscore his value in the six-over burst that sets the tone. With the bat he remains a rare sight, facing just 15 balls for 5 runs in three cameos, yet his real narrative is written with the new rock in hand. From 2022 to 2025 the Afghan star has turned the Royals’ pace department into a sharper, thriftier unit, and fantasy managers hunting early breakthroughs now keep a close eye on Fazalhaq Farooqi’s opening spell every match-day.

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