In a dazzling display of power and precision, young opener Priyansh Arya announced his arrival in the Indian Premier League with an electrifying maiden century that propelled Punjab Kings (PBKS) to a thrilling 18-run victory against the formidable Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a high-stakes IPL 2025 clash at Mullanpur Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday.
Batting first, PBKS amassed a commanding total of 219 for 6, largely thanks to a breathtaking innings from the 24-year-old Arya. He blazed to a sensational 103 off just 42 deliveries, featuring seven blistering boundaries and nine colossal sixes, lifting his team from a shaky 83/5 in the eighth over. His high-octane performance not only electrified the crowd but also turned the tide of the match firmly in Punjab’s favor.
Arya showed remarkable composure and strategy against experienced bowlers, notably hammering three sixes off Ravichandran Ashwin and capitalizing on Matheesha Pathirana’s 13th over, plundering 24 runs. His century was sealed with a daring edge over third man, affirming his impact before he was dismissed.
Supporting Arya’s heroics, Shashank Singh provided a cool-headed 52 not out from 36 balls, and Marco Jansen added a late cameo of 34 not out off 19 deliveries, helping PBKS reach their highest-ever total at the venue.
In their chase, CSK rallied to 201 for 5, with valiant knocks from Devon Conway (69) and Shivam Dube (42), and a late flurry by MS Dhoni (27 off 12). Despite their efforts, Arya’s early onslaught had already set a daunting pace. CSK’s bowling attack, led by Pathirana (4-0-52-0) and Ashwin (4-0-48-2), struggled to contain the onslaught from the young sensation.
PBKS coach Ricky Ponting praised Arya’s performance, stating, “He’s got raw power, and now he’s learning the angles. That’s the difference. This knock was special, not just for the runs, but the way he built it under pressure.”
With this victory, Punjab Kings broke their losing streak, and Arya’s stunning century could well mark a turning point in both his IPL career and Punjab’s campaign for the season.