New Delhi: Punjab Kings registered a thrilling 18-run win over Chennai Super Kings in an IPL 2025 high-scoring clash, thanks to a sensational century by Priyansh Arya and disciplined bowling at the death. With this win, PBKS not only climbed up the points table but also handed CSK their fourth consecutive defeat, increasing pressure on Ruturaj Gaikwad’s men. Young Priyansh Arya stole the show with a breathtaking 103 off just 42 deliveries, becoming the second-fastest Indian to score a century in the IPL. The right-handed opener was aggressive from the get-go, finding boundaries with ease and dispatching spinners and pacers alike into the stands. His knock, laced with 14 fours and 7 sixes, powered Punjab to a formidable 219/6 in their 20 overs.
Though Punjab lost wickets at regular intervals, especially in the middle overs with Ashwin (2/48) striking twice, a late cameo from Shashank Singh (52* off 36) and Marco Jansen (34* off 19) ensured they crossed the 200-mark. Khaleel Ahmed also bowled impressively, picking up 2 wickets for 45 runs.
CSK Falter Despite Conway’s Resistance
In response, CSK had a decent start but lost momentum due to regular breakthroughs. Rachin Ravindra provided an attacking start with a 23-ball 36, but his stumping off Glenn Maxwell in the 7th over halted their charge. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was dismissed cheaply, and it was up to Devon Conway and Shivam Dube to rebuild.
Conway retired out after a well-made 69 off 49, while Dube contributed 42 from 27 balls. MS Dhoni, batting lower down the order, ignited hope with a quick-fire 27 off 12 deliveries. However, the steep asking rate proved too much in the end. Lockie Ferguson and Yash Thakur shared key wickets as Punjab kept things tight at the death.
Punjab Back in Playoff Race
This win not only boosted PBKS’ net run rate but also marked their resurgence in the tournament. Meanwhile, CSK will need to quickly regroup, as another loss could seriously hamper their playoff chances. With young stars like Arya stepping up, the future looks bright for Punjab Kings.
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