Punjab Kings (PBKS) edged past Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 18 runs in a high-scoring IPL 2025 thriller, driven by a stunning knock from Priyansh Arya. The 24-year-old uncapped batter smashed 103 off just 42 balls, recording the fastest IPL century by an uncapped Indian and tying for the fourth-fastest overall in tournament history.
PBKS posted 219 for 6 after Arya’s fireworks, with strong finishing support from Shashank Singh (52* off 28) and Marco Jansen (34* off 18). Arya, who reached his century off only 39 balls, made CSK pay for their sloppy fielding. He was dropped twice—on 6 and 35—and capitalised brilliantly, hitting eight sixes and nine fours. The rest of PBKS’ top six scored just 23 off 25 balls combined, highlighting Arya’s dominance.
CSK’s chase began promisingly, with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra adding 59 in the powerplay. However, the momentum shifted after Glenn Maxwell dismissed Ravindra for 36. Lockie Ferguson then removed Ruturaj Gaikwad cheaply, exposing CSK’s fragile middle order once again.
Shivam Dube threatened briefly with 42 off 25 balls but fell in the 16th over. Although Conway played a steady knock of 69 off 49 balls, he retired out with CSK needing 49 runs from 13 deliveries. MS Dhoni struck three sixes in the death overs, but the asking rate proved too steep. CSK ended on 201 for 5, losing their fourth match in a row.
This defeat also continued CSK’s poor run in high chases—they haven’t successfully chased a 180+ total since 2020. For PBKS, the win was a morale-booster, with Arya’s explosive knock living up to the hype that followed his six-sixes-over feat in the Delhi Premier League. Backed by coach Ricky Ponting’s praise, Arya showed why he’s being talked about as one of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket.
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