Ahmedabad, 04 May (H.S.): Despite a narrow defeat to the Gujarat Titans in a tense Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash on Sunday, Punjab Kings batter Suryansh Shedge appeared upbeat and satisfied with his team’s overall performance.

Played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the match saw Gujarat successfully chasing down a target of 163 runs with just one ball to spare, securing a four‑wicket victory.

Nevertheless, Punjab Kings remain atop the points table, having accumulated 13 points from nine matches, underscoring their consistent campaign despite the loss.

Batting on a challenging pitch, Shedge produced an outstanding innings. He scored 57 runs off 29 balls, including three fours and five sixes, at a strike rate of 196.55. His knock played a crucial role in lifting Punjab to a respectable total.

After the match, Shedge said, “I wasn’t waiting passively; I was preparing myself. Being out of the team gave me the opportunity to become stronger physically and mentally.”

He added that the team management, particularly Ricky Ponting and Shreyas Iyer, had repeatedly advised him to stay ready for his opportunity.

Shedge explained his approach in the innings: “My aim was to spend as much time as possible at the crease. On such a pitch, it was crucial to get set early. Chasing 240–250 runs on this surface was nearly impossible, as the wicket offered two different kinds of pace.”

He acknowledged that Punjab could have added another 20–25 runs, but noted that 163 was still a competitive, fighting total.

Punjab’s bowlers also delivered a strong performance.

Arshdeep Singh picked up two wickets for 24 runs in four overs, helping to keep the pressure on Gujarat. Vijaykumar Vyasaka, bowling with great control, dismissed key batters Jos Buttler and Sai Sudharsan. He conceded 31 runs in four overs.

Shedge praised Vyasaka’s bowling, saying, “Before the powerplay ended, the bowling coach asked him to bowl at hard length, and he executed the plan brilliantly.”

Punjab Kings will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad at their home ground on May 6, where they will look to bounce back with a much‑needed win.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar