Suryansh Shedge hopes to do something important for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the upcoming Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026) season if given a chance. He is waiting for his moment to shine with words of wisdom from Indian cricket icon MS Dhoni.
The Mumbai cricketer is undoubtedly very skilled, but he is yet to justify his talent. The upcoming IPL season could be the best platform for him to take the next step at the upper level. During an interview with ESPNcricinfo, PBKS player Suryansh Shedge revealed what former CSK captain MS Dhoni told him about the role of a finisher.
PBKS star Suryansh Shedge dreams of establishing himself as a finisher
The role of the finisher has gradually become very important over the last few years. Rinku Singh, MS Dhoni and Hardik Pandya are among the few Indian stars who made a name for themselves as premier finishers. Suryansh Shedge also dreams of becoming a great finisher in T20 cricket.
The budding cricketer, who is only 23 years old, has had a very tough time recently. Whether he has performed for the Mumbai cricket team or the Punjab Kings, his statistics are not enough to describe his talent. The former India captain and the cornerstone of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suggested staying in the present and maintaining an approach to every ball.
Indian cricket icon MS Dhoni shares some advice to PBKS cricketer
“I had a conversation with Mahi sir on these lines [MS Dhoni] Too. He also said that the role of finisher is very important in this format, yet there are very few opportunities to play it. And most of the time the result does not go in anyone’s favor. My philosophy is to live in the moment and think about the game one ball at a time,” the PBKS cricketer shared what Dhoni said.
“All the senior players say that the scoreboard itself decides what approach to take. It is important to give yourself time and stay in the present. If you start overthinking, you will not be able to guess the bowler’s plan, and you are bound to make mistakes”, said Suryansh Shedge.
Suryansh Shedge will give equal focus to every ball in IPL 2026
From now on, the budding cricketer inculcated in his mind that every ball provides new opportunities to the batsman. In such a situation, instead of thinking too much about the past, his focus will be on ball by ball in IPL 2026.
“You can relax, take your time and be organised. Cricket is a battle fought ball by ball. Every delivery symbolizes a new beginning. If you win the battle on every ball, your job becomes easier, and you put the opponent under pressure,” the batting all-rounder further explained.
PBKS, the runners-up of the IPL 2025 season, will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 31. Their opening match will be against Gujarat Titans at the PCA New Cricket Stadium, Tira.
Read more: Ex-RCB batsman announces Josh Hazlewood’s replacement ahead of IPL 2026