Suryansh Shedge Discusses Insights from MS Dhoni on Finishing Role Ahead of IPL 2025

As the IPL 2025 season approaches, Suryansh Shedge reflects on valuable lessons learned from MS Dhoni about the finisher's role in cricket. Despite limited opportunities last season, Shedge remains optimistic about his performance with Punjab Kings. He emphasizes the importance of staying present and not overthinking during crucial moments. With the guidance of teammates like Shreyas Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting, Shedge is determined to make a significant impact this season. Discover more about his journey and insights in the full article.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 22, 2026, 11:34 IST

Shedge Reflects on Dhoni's Advice as IPL Approaches

New Delhi, March 22: Suryansh Shedge, an all-rounder for Mumbai and Punjab Kings (PBKS), shared insights from his discussions with cricket legend MS Dhoni regarding the finisher's role during the previous Indian Premier League (IPL). Dhoni emphasized that as a finisher, one often faces failure, and it’s essential not to overthink the situation.

In an interview with a sports media outlet, Shedge looked ahead to the PBKS campaign, which kicks off on March 31 against the Gujarat Titans, the 2022 champions. After a painful defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the last final, the team is eager to rewrite their narrative.

Last season, Shedge had limited opportunities, participating in just three innings and accumulating a mere seven runs, with a top score of 5.

His performance with Mumbai has been similarly modest, with 35 runs in two innings during the Ranji Trophy, 16 runs in one Vijay Hazare Trophy inning, and 60 runs across four innings in the T20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where his highest score was 28.

Despite watching from the sidelines, Shedge maintains a positive outlook, acknowledging the competitive nature of the Mumbai squad. He stated, “Everyone is vying for a spot, and my playing time is not solely in my control.”

He added, “What I can control is my improvement and readiness, as opportunities will eventually come.”

Shedge gained recognition for his impressive performances as a finisher and pace bowler during the 2024-25 SMAT, where he scored 131 runs in nine innings at a strike rate exceeding 251 and took nine wickets. His standout moment was in the final, where he scored a rapid 36* off 15 balls, earning the 'Player of the Match' award and helping Mumbai chase down 176 runs with 13 balls remaining.

However, he has faced challenges since then, often struggling in the finisher's role. During IPL 2025, he sought guidance from Dhoni about this critical position.

Shedge recounted, “I discussed this with Mahi sir [MS Dhoni], who pointed out that while a finisher's role is vital, chances to play it are limited, and outcomes can be unpredictable. My approach is to focus on the present and tackle each ball as it comes.”

He emphasized the importance of not overthinking, stating, “The scoreboard guides your strategy. Staying present is key; overthinking can lead to mistakes.”

At just 23, Shedge views the T20 format as a significant challenge, despite its short nature. “You can take your time to settle in. Cricket is a battle fought ball by ball. Winning each ball's battle simplifies your task and pressures the opposition,” he explained.

Playing alongside Mumbai teammate Shreyas Iyer at PBKS, Shedge appreciates the guidance of head coach Ricky Ponting, a multiple-time World Cup champion. He described Iyer as a strategic mentor and praised Ponting's energetic coaching style, saying, “Even when feeling unwell, his energy motivates you to perform.”