In a high-octane clash at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Punjab Kings (PBKS) defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 18 runs, thanks to a sensational century by young opener Priyansh Arya and a disciplined bowling effort in the death overs.
PBKS Post Mammoth 219/6
Winning the toss and opting to bat, PBKS got off to a flying start as Priyansh Arya (103 off 42 balls, 9 sixes, 7 fours) tore into CSK’s bowling attack, registering the fastest century of IPL 2025 (39 balls). His explosive knock, supported by Shashank Singh (50* off 30), propelled PBKS to a daunting 219/6. CSK’s bowlers struggled, with Matheesha Pathirana (2/45) and Khaleel Ahmed (1/38) being the only ones to contain the damage.
CSK’s Valiant Chase Falls Short
In reply, CSK started aggressively with Rachin Ravindra (36 off 23) and Devon Conway (50 off 38) stitching a 62-run opening stand. However, PBKS struck back with timely wickets, including a crucial dismissal of Shivam Dube (42 off 27). MS Dhoni (27 off 12) threatened with a late cameo, but Yuzvendra Chahal (1/32) and Arshdeep Singh (1/40) held their nerve in the final overs, restricting CSK to 201/5.
Turning Point
- Priyansh Arya’s century set the tone for PBKS.
- CSK’s dropped catches (three in total) proved costly.
- Dhoni’s dismissal in the 20th over sealed the game for PBKS.
Post-Match Reactions
- Shreyas Iyer (PBKS Captain): “Priyansh’s innings was special. We needed this win to stay in the playoff race.”
- Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK Captain): “Too many mistakes in the field. We’ll bounce back stronger.”
IPL 2025 Standings Update
- Orange Cap: Nicholas Pooran (LSG) leads, followed by Mitchell Marsh (DC).
- Points Table: PBKS jumps to 5th, while CSK slips to 7th.
Next Fixtures
- PBKS vs RCB (April 12)
- CSK vs SRH (April 11)
Brief Scores:
PBKS 219/6 (20) (Priyansh Arya 103, Shashank 50*; Pathirana 2/45)
CSK 201/5 (20) (Conway 50, Dube 42; Ferguson 1/28)
Result: PBKS won by 18 runs.
Player of the Match: Priyansh Arya.
