All-rounder Suryansh Shedge of the Punjab Kings credited captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting for assisting him in changing his perspective, which has been a major factor in his impressive performances in the current Indian Premier League season.
Regular chats with Iyer and Ponting, according to the Mumbai all-rounder, helped him concentrate on preparation, being in the moment, and trusting his instincts—lessons that have allowed him to maximize opportunities once he broke into the playing eleven.
“Shreyas bhai told me during an internal match before the IPL that I was batting well and not to overthink. If I had thought about things not in my control, I wouldn’t have been able to perform in that situation. He talks a lot about technique and attitude,” PTI quoted Shedge as saying during a round table on Friday.
Regarding Ponting’s impact, Shedge stated that the legendary Australian has consistently emphasized the value of preparation.
“Ricky sir has been all about preparation and preparation. He says whatever happens, be courageous, back yourself and know that you belong,” he said.
After spending the first half of the season on the bench, Shedge disclosed that he had a talk with Ponting that had a profound effect on him.
“After the fourth and fifth game, he asked me if I was frustrated. At first I said no, but then he asked me to tell him honestly. He said he understood how I was feeling – it’s easy to get bogged down and feel negative, but harder to stay in the present and focus on the job ahead so that you’re ready when the opportunity comes.”
The 23-year-old claimed that having extra time to prepare during that time on the sidelines ultimately proved to be beneficial.
“When I wasn’t playing, I got one extra month for preparation. I think the attitude that I kept working as hard as possible every day helped me get into the playing eleven.”
Shedge, who is well-known for his aggressive finishing style, claimed that his training is customized for his position on the team.
“I have to be switched on from ball one. That’s what I do in net sessions. I give myself scenarios – targets in one over and how to achieve them. Preparation-wise, it’s not different from the last two years, but the mindset shift has given me the edge.”
The young player also mentioned how his batting has changed as a result of becoming more instinctive at the crease.
“One shift I made was being instinctive and not pre-meditative, even in practice, and that has helped me achieve better success.”
Shedge was optimistic about the Punjab Kings’ chances despite the team’s recent decline following a successful start to the season.
“Whenever we were winning, we still felt we were not at our best. In the last three games we haven’t been at our best. The next four games we will come back stronger, I can guarantee that. The focus is on keeping the atmosphere happy and peaceful. Right now we need to stick together as a team.”
Shedge denied claims that Punjab is unduly dependent on seasoned leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, supporting the team’s bowling unit.
“You are talking about a GOAT there. He is one of the best spinners in the league and in India. But I won’t say we are over-dependent on Chahal.”
Shedge reaffirmed his long-term goals as well.
“I want to establish myself as an all-rounder. But, right now, the only thing in my head is lifting the cup for Punjab Kings.”
