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.

Rajat Patidar is the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s middle-order engine, a home-grown hero who has stacked 1,111 IPL runs in just 38 innings at a blazing strike rate of 154. Since his 2021 debut with RCB, the Indore batter has turned 720 balls into a highlight reel of 76 fours and 68 sixes, translating one in every ten deliveries into a boundary. His maiden century—an unbeaten 112—came alongside nine half-centuries, proving he can both anchor and accelerate. Four seasons, one franchise, zero wickets: Patidar is pure batting firepower for RCB fans and fantasy managers tracking the 2025 IPL season.

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