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.

Shardul Thakur IPL 2025: 107 wickets in 102 innings, economy 9.4, best 4-29; handy 325 runs at 139 strike-rate, 68* top score. After ten seasons, five franchises, and 2070 balls of high-pressure death bowling, the Lucknow Super Giants recruit has grown into the league’s quintessential “three-phase” asset. With 107 wickets—eight three-fers, no five-fers—he attacks in bursts, striking every 19.35 balls while conceding less than ten an over. Batting lower down, Thakur has muscled 30 fours and 13 sixes, including a 68* that sealed a famous chase. From 2015 Punjab Kings debutant to 2025 LSG finisher, Shardul’s numbers tell a story of clutch performances across Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and now Lucknow—an all-round match-winner built for the IPL’s biggest stages.

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