Punjab Kings middle-order batter Nehal Wadhera is returning to the Wankhede Stadium for the IPL 2026 match against Mumbai Indians on Thursday, and he believes the familiar surroundings can help him break out of a quiet spell. The 25-year-old, who has managed 3, 10 and 14 runs in the three innings PBKS have played this season, is hoping one proper knock will be the turning point as he lines up against the team he represented for two seasons from 2023-24.
Key takeaways
- Nehal Wadhera expects his return to Wankhede to boost his rhythm ahead of PBKS vs Mumbai Indians on Thursday.
- In PBKS’ three batting outings so far this season, Wadhera has contributed 3, 10 and 14 runs.
- He previously played for Mumbai Indians across the 2023-24 and 2024 seasons, and says he knows the Wankhede conditions well.
- PBKS hold an equal head-to-head record with MI among the IPL’s founding franchises, with 17 wins each from 34 meetings.
- Wadhera credited Ricky Ponting and PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer for creating a mindset that encourages players to express themselves.
Wadhera targets a breakthrough at Wankhede
Speaking at the Wankhede on Wednesday ahead of the fixture, Wadhera said familiarity is central to his confidence. He noted that he has played at the venue for two years, has worked extensively with various batters and bowlers during practice, and feels he understands how the ground behaves. While he acknowledged he is short of runs, he suggested his form is close to coming around, insisting it can start with a single innings.
Wadhera also emphasized that his current touch is encouraging. He framed his situation as one where patience and persistence matter most, and felt that once he gets one performance going, momentum should follow naturally.
PBKS’ MI record and plans set the tone
The Punjab batter said PBKS can draw confidence from their results against Mumbai Indians across the years. Among the eight teams that were present at the start of the IPL, PBKS are the only franchise that has an even record against MI so far, with both sides having won 17 matches in their first 34 meetings.
Wadhera likened confidence in team success to an individual’s belief when they are performing well—arguing that a strong head-to-head record can carry momentum into new contests. He also highlighted last season’s clash, pointing out that PBKS beat MI in the semifinals and that the matchup this time features the same general group of bowlers and the same squad structure.
Because of that continuity, Wadhera said PBKS have a clearer idea of the kind of bowling plans MI may attempt, which he believes gives them an extra edge. He suggested that if the side managed to respond effectively to those plans last year, repeating that approach could lead to similar success this time.
Momentum from last season and praise for Ponting and Iyer
Wadhera, who can bowl leg-break when needed, agreed that PBKS have picked up right where they left off the previous year. He said the franchise is carrying forward the same momentum despite falling short in last season’s final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, adding that the team believes it is still capable of dominating opponents as it did during the earlier stages of the campaign.
He described the environment inside the camp as largely unchanged, pointing to a familiar routine and atmosphere that mirrors last season and supports the group’s confidence.
Wadhera also spoke highly of head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer for strengthening the players’ positive mindset. He said Ponting repeatedly encourages batters to stick to their natural game and not be overly concerned about failure. Wadhera added that having a cricketing figure like Ponting involved is especially valuable for players who have not had the chance to play for India, noting that Ponting contributes meaningful conversation shaped by his experience and leadership, including multiple World Cup titles as Australia captain.
On the captain’s role, Wadhera said Shreyas Iyer’s direct communication with players has a tangible effect. He recalled a recent conversation in which Iyer urged him to play his natural game and not let pressure dictate his approach. Wadhera said the message was clear: Iyer will take responsibility for the pressure, while Wadhera focuses on executing his batting style.
