Priyansh Arya's Century Guides Punjab Kings to Victory Over CSK
Punjab Kings registered their first home victory of the 2025 Indian Premier League season in spectacular fashion, defeating the struggling Chennai Super Kings by 18 runs in Mullanpur on Tuesday, April 8th. The cornerstone of Punjab's triumph was a breathtaking maiden IPL century from young opener Priyansh Arya, whose explosive innings rendered MS Dhoni's late cameo insufficient for Chennai.
Priyansh Arya Lights up in Mullanpur
Choosing to bat first, Punjab Kings' innings was dominated by Priyansh Arya. Setting the tone with a six off the very first ball, the 24-year-old launched a sustained assault on the CSK bowlers. Despite losing partners at regular intervals, Priyansh maintained an aggressive approach, reaching his fifty in just 19 balls. He was particularly severe on the spinners, continuing his attack even as Punjab slipped to 83 for 5. He welcomed key bowler Matheesha Pathirana with three consecutive sixes before reaching his hundred off a mere 39 balls, eventually dismissed for 103. Even with Priyansh's dismissal, Punjab adhered to their attacking philosophy. Designated finisher Shashank Singh played a crucial role alongside Marco Jansen, ensuring the innings finished strongly without further loss of wickets. Their efforts pushed Punjab Kings to a formidable total of 219 for 6, built largely around Priyansh's stunning knock.
Chennai's chased hard
Facing a significant target, Chennai Super Kings needed a strong start, which openers Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway provided with a 61-run partnership. After Ravindra's dismissal, Conway (69) combined effectively with Impact Player Shivam Dube (42) for an 89-run stand, keeping CSK in the hunt. Following Dube's departure, MS Dhoni arrived to a huge reception and immediately struck several boundaries, including two sixes off Lockie Ferguson. Conway strategically retired out to allow other hitters a chance.
Punjab Kings Seal their Home Win
Dhoni continued his assault, hitting another six off Arshdeep Singh, raising hopes of a miraculous finish. However, attempting another big shot off the first ball of the final over, Dhoni was caught in the deep. His dismissal for a quickfire 28 off 12 balls effectively ended CSK's challenge. Punjab Kings closed out the match to win by 18 runs.
This victory, Punjab's first at their new home ground, reflects their clear aggressive intent this season and moves them into the top four. For Chennai Super Kings, it marked a fourth consecutive defeat.
