Watch: Ricky Ponting and Arshdeep Singh share heartfelt birthday wishes for Vishal Nishad during IPL 2026

The Punjab Kings (PBKS) started their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with a win over the Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 31. It was a thrilling contest between the two teams, thoroughly enjoyed by the fans. The game had all the right moments and kept the fans hooked till the last over. While it looked like the match would end soon, GT bowlers stretched it into the last over.

Despite all their efforts, PBKS managed to secure a win against the Titans in the fourth match of the season. After the game, PBKS coach Ricky Ponting and Arshdeep Singh were spotted singing the birthday song for Vishal Nishad.

Ricky Ponting and Arshdeep Singh bring smiles with special gesture

In the video that went viral on social media, Ricky Ponting and Arshdeep Singh were seen wishing Vishal Nishad in a heartfelt manner. The three of them were in front of the camera in the team bus, singing the happy birthday song for Vishal. Their gesture reflected the camaraderie and spirit of cricket beyond competition, highlighting the human side of the game.

Moments like these often stand out in a high-pressure tournament like the IPL, reminding everyone of the strong bonds formed within franchises. Similarly, the fans on social media appreciated the simplicity and warmth of the act, with many praising both Ponting and Arshdeep for their genuine.

Watch the video here:

Who is Vishal Nishad and his role in the team setup

Vishal Nishad is an emerging cricketer of this season with a strong background in T20 cricket as a mystery spinner. He gained his popularity during the UPT20 League 2024 and came to the limelight. He is now in the PBKS squad for the ongoing IPL 2026 season. Punjab Kings’ scout Ankit Rajpoot was the one behind Nishad's selection in the squad since he has seen him perform on the ground level. If the bowler gets an opportunity in this season, he will look forward to having an unforgettable IPL. 

"Vishal impressed me a lot when I held the trials for the Gorakhpur Lions in Gorakhpur ahead of the UPT20 League in 2024, and from that day onwards, I thought this boy can make it to an IPL side,” said Rajpoot, head coach of Gorakhpur Lions.