IPL opener Shashank Singh has announced his switch from Chhattisgarh to Puducherry, citing lack of support from his home board. He also revealed a break from red‑ball cricket to focus on white‑ball formats.

Key Takeaways

  • Shashank Singh will represent Puducherry from the 2026‑27 season
  • He accuses the Chhattisgarh Cricket Association of providing no support
  • He is taking a break from red‑ball cricket to concentrate on white‑ball

New Delhi – Shashank Singh, the explosive opener for Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League, has officially announced his departure from his home side, Chhattisgarh, to play for Puducherry. The move was confirmed by former CA Puducherry president P. Damodaran, who also mentioned that Mumbai wicket‑keeper‑batsman Prasad Pawar will join the squad.

Speaking to the Times of India, Singh said, “I have obtained an NOC from CSCS and will be moving to Puducherry for the 2026‑27 season. Last season I suffered serious shoulder and finger injuries, yet the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Association gave me no support.” He added that his name was omitted from the state’s pre‑season camp list and that he received no explanation.

Historical Background

Shashank debuted for Chhattisgarh in 2019 and quickly became a regular fixture. In first‑class cricket he amassed 905 runs at an average of 29.9 and claimed 16 wickets in 24 matches. In List A, he scored 1,054 runs with 37 wickets across 35 games. His all‑round brilliance earned him the BCCI’s “Best All‑Rounder” award in 2025, along with the prestigious Lala Amarnath trophy.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that Singh’s shift not only strengthens Puducherry’s domestic lineup but also reshapes his IPL utility, offering Punjab Kings a more versatile all‑round option and prompting strategic adjustments across franchises.

"Shashank brings a rare blend of power hitting and medium‑pace spin, giving Puducherry a genuine match‑winner in both formats," says cricket analyst Rajesh Kumar.

Singh also announced a self‑imposed break from red‑ball cricket to keep his body fresh, while committing to delivering his full quota of four overs in T20 matches for both Puducherry and Punjab Kings. He remains a top‑ranked all‑rounder in India’s white‑ball circuit and a recipient of the Lala Amarnath award.

Did You Know?: In the 2024‑25 season, Singh scored 188 runs in just seven matches of the Sayyed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, showcasing his consistent strike‑rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What role will Shashank Singh play for Puducherry?
Answer: He will serve as a top‑order batsman and part‑time spinner, providing balance to the side.

Question 2: Will Singh continue with Punjab Kings in the IPL?
Answer: Yes, he will retain his IPL contract with Punjab Kings while representing Puducherry in domestic competitions.