Parvinder Awana Praises Punjab Kings' Strong Start in IPL 2023
Punjab Kings' Promising Performance in IPL 2023
New Delhi, April 5: Former Indian cricketer Parvinder Awana has expressed his admiration for the Punjab Kings (PBKS) as they kick off the IPL season with two victories. He specifically highlighted the impressive play of Priyansh Arya.
During the Fit India Sundays on Cycle event in New Delhi, Awana shared his thoughts on PBKS' well-rounded team and their strong showing under captain Shreyas Iyer.
“We reached the finals in IPL 2025. This year, we have secured two wins and our team composition looks promising. Success in cricket is a collective effort; we boast a solid bowling attack and a formidable batting lineup. If we maintain this form, playoff qualification is within reach,” Awana remarked.
Awana also emphasized the franchise's commitment to nurturing young Indian talent, pointing to 24-year-old Arya as a potential future star.
“Priyansh had a commendable performance last year and delivered a strong innings in the recent match. I believe he has the potential to excel. I’ve known him since childhood, and he possesses significant talent,” Awana stated. He played for the Punjab franchise (formerly Kings XI Punjab) from 2012 to 2015 and has represented Delhi in domestic cricket.
After finishing as runners-up last season, Punjab Kings have once again assembled a squad that blends experienced players with emerging talents. Alongside Arya, the roster includes promising players like Prabhsimran Singh, Nehal Wadhera, and Musheer Khan, positioning PBKS as early contenders this season.
In addition to cricket, the 39-year-old Awana highlighted the significance of fitness during the Fit India Sundays on Cycle event, which coincided with World Health Day.
“The Fit India Movement, initiated by PM Modi in 2019, promotes fitness awareness through events like Sundays on Cycle. It encourages participation in various sports, including badminton, table tennis, cricket, tug of war, and yoga,” Awana explained.
The 68th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle took place at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Swimming Pool Complex, attracting over 800 participants who cycled 5km and engaged in various fitness activities.
Notable figures at the event included Paralympian Pushpendra Singh and powerlifting champion Mukesh Singh Gahlot, alongside Awana, who has played for India in two T20Is.
Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India, the event was held two days before World Health Day, with participants chanting the slogan “Fitness ka dose, aadha ghanta roz” (A dose of fitness is half an hour of activity daily).
Awana also stressed the link between physical fitness and mental health, stating, “A strong body leads to a strong mind. Stay fit, and if India is fit, then India is hit,” he concluded.