Shedge, who came into the tournament with a strong reputation after his breakthrough showing for Mumbai in the 2024-25 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, had largely been on the sidelines before this game. Featuring in only his second outing of the season, he seized the opportunity with a counter-attacking 57 off 29 balls that briefly revived Punjab\u2019s innings.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cJust his confidence in terms of playing those big shots. If you remember, he has won a final. He played a match-winning knock for his team in the Mushtaq Ali final. From then on, being picked in the IPL, being in the IPL and also playing an innings like that,\" Rayudu told ESPNcricinfo.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Walking in at No. 6 with his side struggling at 36\/4 in the seventh over, Shedge found himself under immediate pressure. The situation worsened when captain Shreyas Iyer fell soon after, leaving Punjab reeling at 47\/5. However, the youngster responded with composure and intent, stitching together a 79-run partnership with Marcus Stoinis that shifted momentum.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Rayudu acknowledged that while the innings had its share of assistance from loose bowling, Shedge\u2019s approach stood out. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cHe was helped by Suthar definitely in that over - there were a lot of loose balls. But, yeah, he hung in there. He looked like someone who could clear the ground easily. As an Indian player coming into the IPL, if that is your strength, then half the battle is already won. After that, it's just game awareness that you need to get in,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Rayudu acknowledged that while the innings had its share of assistance from loose bowling, Shedge\u2019s approach stood out. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, his promising knock ended at a crucial juncture. Attempting to force the pace against Kagiso Rabada in the 16th over, Shedge edged behind, leaving Punjab short of a stronger finish. They eventually posted 163\/9, a total that proved slightly below par despite their late surge.<\/p>\r\n\r\n