IPL 2025: Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings , Match 22 - Who Said What?

After winning the toss, Punjab Kings (PBKS) skipper Shreyas Iyer chose to bat against the visitors Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The hosts put up a score of 220 on board courtesy Priyansh Arya's 29-ball century for CSK to chase in their 20 overs. 

To ignite a turnaround, CSK opted to retire Conway out in the 18th over, but his replacement, Ravindra Jadeja, failed to make an impact and couldn't change the course of the game. In hindsight, questions will be asked if CSK could have retired Conway out earlier to allow Jadeja more time at the crease. Another major talking point from the game was the number of dropped catches from both sides, which ultimately proved to be costly. While Arya’s brilliance was the highlight of the match, the result was shaped by key moments and mistakes that could have been avoided.

Talking Points

1. Priyansh Arya destroys CSK bowlers in dominant batting display

In a dazzling display of power hitting, young Priyansh Arya put on a batting masterclass, leaving Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stunned with his match-winning performance. Arya’s audacious strokes reminded many of past uncapped players, like Paul Valthaty, who have delivered unforgettable performances against the men in yellow. His aggressive knock was pivotal in setting a mammoth target, and despite CSK's best efforts, the chase proved to be too steep.

2. Devon Conway's knock in vain as CSK fall short

CSK’s response started with a solid opening stand between Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, but the required run rate quickly escalated, putting pressure on the middle order. Shivam Dube, who came in at number 4, attempted to shift the momentum, but Conway's slow strike rate made it difficult for Dube to accelerate. MS Dhoni’s quickfire cameo of 27 off 12 balls gave the CSK fans some hope, but by then, the equation had become nearly impossible to achieve. In a bid to spark a revival, CSK even attempted to retire Conway out in the 18th over, but his replacement, Ravindra Jadeja, could not turn the tide.

3. CSK continue to falter while chasing 

In today’s game against PBKS, CSK once again found themselves falling short while chasing a target, continuing a troubling trend that has plagued them this season. Despite a strong start from their openers, the team failed to capitalize and keep up with the required run rate. Shivam Dube and Devon Conway showed some resistance, but the chase ultimately slipped out of their grasp. This season, CSK has struggled with their chase, often relying too heavily on MS Dhoni to finish games, but with his contributions diminishing, no other player has consistently stepped up in crucial moments. What’s more concerning is that CSK’s batting hasn’t been able to match the intensity of their bowlers' errors, while their bowlers gave away three overs of 20+ runs today, the batters couldn’t score 20+ runs in a single over. This inability to accelerate and capitalize on big overs has led to their downfall in multiple matches this season, highlighting a significant issue with their chase strategy and execution.

Who Said What?

Shreyas Iyer, PBKS skipper

This is going to be the template irrespective of any ground we play at. Strong hitters we have and the way Priyansh played was scintillating to watch. Out of the world type of innings. When I had a chat with him in the last game, he was a bit timid in his decision-making when he faced Jofra. Today he backed his instincts, he was free-flowing, that's the mindset I want everyone to have in this team. Basically was one of the top knocks I have seen in the IPL. That was a tactical call, because Dube had already played a few deliveries and Conway. With Yuzi coming in we know how destructive he can be, but I felt that the instincts was to go with the seamers. Basically we wanted pace against Dube, we delayed a bit in that but eventually it worked out. We were talking right now, we haven't played our best game yet, the nerves are still there, once they get fearless on the field, we need to go back and do group catching sessions, but we won the game and we need to focus on the positives.

Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK skipper

I think the last four games, the only point of difference (fielding being the difference). It has been critical. The catches we have been dropping, the same batsman is scoring 15,20, 30 runs. Sometimes you have to appreciate it (On Arya's 100). Priyansh played well. High risk batting and it came off well. We were getting wickets at regular intervals but they kept the momentum going. 10-15 runs lesser would have helped us. But it comes down to dropped catches. It was spot on in the batting perspective. Two of our best batters (Rachin and Conway) who play pace well went at the top of the order. They had a good powerplay. Lot of positives in the batting department. We were two three hits away today, Devon is more of a timer of a ball. Very useful at the top of the order. Jaddu, his role is completely different, You know the batsmen is struggling (On Conway being retired out). We waited for him to time it and then changed when we thought it was necessary. Just have some fun. I spoke ahead of the game that we have to enjoy the fielding. If you are nervous, you will drop a catch. If you look to be a standout fielder, save those two three, get that run-out, it helps the team. Batting and bowling you can have bad days.

Priyansh Arya, Player of the Match

Out of the world feeling, I feel very happy but I feel I should contribute more to the team. Shreyas told me to bat with intent, you for it even with your first ball after I got out last match. When Nehal came out to bat, I told him we will look for singles and doubles, but he told me you play the way with whatever first comes to your mind. All bowlers are good, any bowler could have troubled me.