After his spectacular innings for his team against Gujarat Titans in their recently finished IPL 2026 match, former India batter Ambati Rayudu says that young Punjab Kings all-rounder Suryansh Shedge is a bright finisher because to his aggressive strokeplay and confidence in clearing the boundary. Shedge had mostly been sidelined prior to this match, despite entering the tournament with a solid reputation following his breakout performance for Mumbai in the 2024–25 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In just his second appearance of the year, he took advantage of the chance to counterattack with a 57 off 29 balls, momentarily reviving Punjab's innings.

"Just his assurance when it comes to making those big shots." He has won a final, if you recall. In the Mushtaq Ali final, he contributed a game-winning knock for his team. From that point on, Rayudu said ESPNcricinfo, "being selected in the IPL, being in the IPL, and also playing an innings like that."
Shedge was immediately under pressure when he arrived at No. 6 with his team suffering at 36/4 in the seventh over. Soon after, captain Shreyas Iyer collapsed, worsening the situation and leaving Punjab reeling at 47/5. But the young player answered calmly and determinedly, putting together a 79-run partnership with Marcus Stoinis that turned the tide.

Rayudu admitted that while loose bowling helped the innings in several ways, Shedge's strategy was particularly noteworthy.
There were a lot of loose balls in that over, and Suthar undoubtedly aided him. He did, however, persevere. He appeared to be able to get off the ground with ease. If that's your strength as an Indian player entering the IPL, you've already won half the fight. After that, all you need to do is become conscious of the game," he continued.
In the 14th over, Shedge's assault reached its zenith as he dismantled Manav Suthar, amassing numerous boundaries and sixes to give the innings momentum. He outscored Stoinis during their stand and demonstrated his ability to control spin by hitting three fours and five sixes overall.

But at a critical point, his hopeful knock came to an end. In the sixteenth over, Shedge tried to push the pace against Kagiso Rabada, but he fell behind, preventing Punjab from finishing more strongly. Despite their late charge, their final score of 163/9 was marginally below par.