NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings all-rounder Suryansh Shedge on Friday credited head coach Ricky Ponting and skipper Shreyas Iyer for helping him undergo a crucial mindset shift that has played a key role in his strong performance in the ongoing Indian Premier League season.
The Mumbai all-rounder said regular conversations with Iyer and Ponting have helped him focus on preparation, staying in the present, and trusting his instincts — lessons that have enabled him to make the most of opportunities once he broke into the playing XI.
"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," Shedge said during a round table on Friday.
"He talks a lot about technique and attitude."
On Ponting's influence, Shedge said the Australian great has constantly stressed the importance 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.
Shedge revealed a conversation with Ponting after he had spent the early part of the season on the bench left a lasting impact 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 said that period on the sidelines eventually became a blessing as he got more time to prepare.
"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 XI."
Shedge, known for his aggressive finishing ability, said his preparation is tailored as per his role in 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 youngster added that becoming more instinctive at the crease has also transformed his batting.
"One shift I made was being instinctive and not pre-meditative, even in practice, and that has helped me achieve better success."
Despite Punjab Kings' recent dip after a strong start to the campaign, Shedge remained upbeat about the team's prospects.
"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."
Backing the team's bowling unit, Shedge dismissed suggestions that Punjab are overly reliant on veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal.
"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 also reiterated his long-term ambition.
"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."