IPL 2026: PBKS all-rounder Suryansh Shedge credits SMAT for self-belief, says ‘I came out as a match-winner’

For 23-year-old Suryansh Shedge, the breakthrough moment in his cricketing journey didn’t come quietly, it arrived with silverware and self-belief. The Punjab Kings all-rounder points to last year’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) as the defining phase of his career so far. Being part of a championship-winning side and contributing meaningfully didn’t just add to his resume, it reshaped his mindset. “It helped me believe in myself a lot more,” Shedge told WION in an exclusive interview. “I came out as a match-winner, and that instilled a lot of self-belief in me.”

That confidence has since translated into a more structured and mature approach to his game, particularly as an all-rounder balancing both bat and ball. Shedge stresses the importance of workload management and understanding one’s body, calling it a crucial aspect of growth at this stage. “When you’re going batting-heavy in practice, you need to tone down your bowling and vice versa,” he explains, highlighting the fine balance required to maintain peak performance in both disciplines.

Batting is reaction: Suryansh Shedge

Equally important, he says, is the mental switch. “When you enter a match, think like a batter when you’re batting and a bowler when you’re bowling.” It’s a simple philosophy, but one that has helped him stay clear-headed and role-specific in high-intensity situations. And when the pressure peaks, tight chases, closing overs, Shedge leans on clarity rather than chaos. “In close finishes, the bowling side is under more pressure,” he says. “Batting is reaction. I just need to back my strengths, stay in the present, and keep my cool.”

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Everyone has different approaches: Shedge on players' mindset of Punjab Kings

It’s this composure that allows him to break down even daunting scenarios. “If you need 12 off 3, even if you miss one ball, you still have two. It’s about focusing on the task at hand.” Looking ahead, Shedge, JSW athlete, is focused on breaking consistently into the senior national setup. His approach is methodical, working on situational awareness and dissecting his game into smaller, manageable improvements. “I’m trying to break things down and give individual time to every aspect,” he says, underlining a process-driven mindset rather than chasing quick results.

The IPL, meanwhile, has added another dimension to his development. Sharing a dressing room with global stars at Punjab Kings has exposed him to diverse methods, mindsets, and preparation styles. “Everyone has different approaches. You observe, learn, and take what works for you,” he says. “It has helped me a lot in terms of knowledge and attitude.” In a team environment where every player strives to be a match-winner, Shedge has found both inspiration and direction.