Suryansh Shedge delivered both with the bat and at the microphone as the Punjab Kings youngster dismissed talk of a personal “race” for national selection following his standout performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Gujarat Titans on Sunday.
Shedge scored a crucial 57 runs, stabilising Punjab Kings after an early top-order collapse and helping the team post a competitive total of 163 for nine. Despite the eventual loss, his innings stood out as a key contribution, particularly given that it came in only his second appearance of the season, underlining his ability to perform under pressure.
During the post-match press conference, Shedge was asked about competition among middle-order batters and whether it improves his chances of breaking into the national team. The young batter responded firmly, stating that he does not view his career progression as a race, emphasising that his primary focus remains on contributing to the team’s success.
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He reiterated that his goal is to give his best whenever selected and to help Punjab Kings compete for the title. Shedge’s response highlighted a team-first approach, distancing himself from individual milestones or comparisons and instead aligning his ambitions with the franchise’s larger objective of winning the tournament.
The batter also credited guidance from head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer for keeping him mentally prepared. He noted that consistent communication with the leadership group has helped him stay focused and ready to seize opportunities whenever they arise during the season.
Reflecting on his mindset, Shedge said he thrives in challenging situations and prepares himself for different match scenarios. Drawing from his domestic cricket experience, he added that he has often helped his teams recover from difficult positions, a trait he aims to carry forward as he continues to build his career in the IPL.
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