CSK chokes in chase again, Punjab wins by 18 runs; Conway hits 69(49)

In a thrilling clash between two power-packed sides, Punjab Kings emerged victorious over Chennai Super Kings by 18 runs in today’s IPL encounter. The star of the match was young sensation Priyansh Arya, who lit up the stadium with a blistering 103 off just 42 balls, anchoring Punjab to a massive first-innings total of 219/6 in their 20 overs.

Arya’s innings included 7 boundaries and 9 towering sixes, dominating the Chennai bowlers from the get-go. After his dismissal, Shashank Singh took charge with a composed 52 off 36*, while Marco Jansen added the finishing touches with a cameo of 34 off 19*. Despite a powerful top and middle-order performance, the rest of the Punjab batting lineup struggled, with no other player crossing double digits, including skipper Shreyas Iyer.

Chennai’s bowling saw moments of success with Khaleel Ahmed emerging as their most effective bowler, picking up 2 wickets for 45 runs. Ashwin, Mukesh Choudhary, and Noor Ahmad chipped in with a wicket each but couldn’t fully contain the damage inflicted by Punjab’s top order.

In response, Chennai Super Kings began on a shaky note as Rachin Ravindra fell early despite showing promise. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was dismissed for just 1 run, putting pressure on the middle order. However, Shivam Dube (42 off 27) and Devon Conway (69 off 49) tried to steady the chase, building a solid partnership.

Excitement peaked as MS Dhoni walked in amid thunderous cheers, hoping to orchestrate yet another magical finish. He delivered a few vintage strokes, scoring 27 off 12 with a four and three sixes, before being dismissed by Yash Thakur, thanks to a daring catch by Yuzvendra Chahal.

With Jadeja unable to produce a miraculous finish and finishing with 9 off 5*, Chennai fell short, ending at 201/5 in 20 overs. Despite a fighting effort, the chase fell apart without a strong start and late acceleration.