Chennai Super Kings (CSK) lost their fourth straight match in IPL 2025 following a below-par game against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Tuesday. The game was characterized by poor fielding from both teams, particularly CSK, which spilled several catches at crucial times. PBKS opener Priyansh Arya was the worst victim, scoring a scintillating 103 from a mere 39 deliveries after two dropped chances.

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PBKS registered a record total of 219/6. Arya's century was complemented by Shashank Singh, who was unbeaten on 52 and was dropped as well. CSK bowlers lacked support from the fielders as Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, and Ravindra Jadeja were all guilty of dropping easy chances. CSK replied with 201/5, with Devon Conway scoring 69 before being retired hurt.

Irfan Pathan Slams Poor Fielding

8 drop catches in the game today. Itne to legend league mein Nahi chorte bhai.

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) April 8, 2025

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan did not mince his words. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), he derided the level of fielding saying, "8 drop catches in the game today. Itne to legend league mein nahi chorte bhai," translating to even veteran players do not drop that number of catches. CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad identified fielding as the primary cause for the recent loss of the team. For the past four matches, the fumbled catches are paying the cost. The same batsmen go on scoring 15-30 runs extra even after being dropped he added.He did credit that even as the batting promised much, fielding errors were costing dearly.

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CSK head coach Stephen Fleming concurred with Gaikwad's sentiments, sounding disappointed. "The game was actually lost in the field. We were sloppy and imprecise under pressure," he averred. He was, however, impressed with some of the individual performances but conceded that the missed opportunities really made a difference.Overall, the defeat wasn't purely about Arya's pyrotechnic innings. CSK's fielding errors helped PBKS put on a tough target, and in spite of a good batting attempt, the deed was already accomplished. CSK now has to pull themselves back quickly as the tournament gathers speed.

Irfan Pathan was clearly unhappy with the fielding in the IPL 2025 match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Both teams dropped several easy catches, and Irfan didn’t happy back in pointing out the poor fielding effort.

The match took place in Mullanpur on Tuesday, April 8. After winning the toss, PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer chose to bat first. Punjab made the most of the opportunity, putting up a big total of 219/6. Young opener Priyansh Arya stole the show with a brilliant century off just 39 balls. Shashank Singh remained unbeaten on 52, and Marco Jansen added a handy 34* to boost the total.

8 drop catches in the game today. Itne to legend league mein Nahi chorte bhai.

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) April 8, 2025

In reply, CSK fought hard but could only reach 201/5. Devon Conway was the top scorer with a steady 69 off 49 balls, but it wasn’t enough. After the match, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted that dropped catches have been hurting the team. “In the last few games, fielding has made the biggest difference. We’re dropping catches, and those same batters go on to add 15–30 more runs,” he said.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: RCB vs. DC - A Head to Head breakdown

He also felt the team bowled well and picked up wickets regularly but couldn’t stop Punjab’s momentum. “If we had saved 10–15 runs, it would’ve made a big difference. Batting-wise, we did well. Rachin and Conway played pace nicely, and we had a strong start. We were just two or three big shots away. Devon is more of a timer, and he looked good out there,” Gaikwad added. CSK will try to get back to winning ways when they take on Kolkata Knight Riders at home on Friday, April 11. Punjab Kings will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Uppal the following day.

Pace bowler Mukesh Choudhary was at risk while trying to eliminate young batsman Priyansh Arya at an exciting moment of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) vs Chennai Super Kings (CSK) IPL 2025 match. This happened during the 12th over when PBKS were batting. Priyansh Arya, known for his aggressive batting, played the ball towards long-on. Mukesh Choudhary was patrolling near the boundary and jumped perfectly to catch the ball. For a fraction of a second, it appeared to be an excellent bit of fielding and a crucial wicket for CSK.

ALSO READ: Who is Priyansh Arya, fastest uncapped Indian to score IPL century

But replays indicated that as he caught the ball, Mukesh's foot had touched the boundary cushion. As per cricket rules, if a fielder has his foot on the boundary while he has the ball in hand, the batter is not out and the shot is a six. 

Third Umpire Confirms the Six

The umpires on the field went upstairs to review the replay, and the third umpire agreed with what the cameras were displaying. Mukesh barely touched the foam boundary while securing the catch. According to this, Priyansh Arya received not out, and six runs were credited to PBKS. But replays indicated that in catching the ball, Mukesh's foot had touched the boundary cushion. As per cricket rules, if a fielder has his body in contact with the boundary while holding the ball, the batter is not out, and the shot is a six.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025: GT vs RR - A Head to Head breakdown

This small error was quite expensive, as Priyansh continued scoring runs and had PBKS in chase. Though the miss was there, Mukesh's gesture was well received by the audience and his team for his dedication and bravery at the boundary rope. Moments like these remind one of how narrow a line can be between success and failure in T20 cricket, where a small little move can change the game.

In his debut IPL season, Priyansh Arya lit up the tournament with a sensational 103 off just 39 balls before getting dismissed. The elegant left-hander launched his innings with aggression from the very first over. Despite his explosive start, Punjab Kings (PBKS) faced regular setbacks and concluded the powerplay at 75/3. Notably, Arya also recorded the fastest century ever against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL history.

Additionally, he became only the second batter to notch a century in the ongoing IPL 2025 season. The quality of his innings was evident from the very start, as he struck the very first ball he faced for a six. In his T20 career so far, Arya has amassed 628 runs in 21 innings at an average of 31.40, including one century and three half-centuries. Batting first after winning the toss, captain Shreyas Iyer aimed for a commanding total, and Arya's fireworks ensured that PBKS reached 164/6 by the 15th over of their match against Chennai Super Kings at the Mullanpur Stadium.

PBKS were looking to bounce back from their loss to the Rajasthan Royals. Although the team had lost, their performances in both batting and bowling had shown promise in previous matches. Back on their home ground, PBKS hoped to build momentum. Meanwhile, CSK have struggled to find their rhythm this season. Their batting lacks direction, and their bowling appears uncertain about whether to rely on spin or pace, which has affected their overall consistency.

ALSO READ: IPL 2025 Points Table, Purple Cap and Orange Cap after Mumbai Indians (MI) vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Match No 20

Priyansh Arya Shines on Debut for Punjab Kings

Preity Zinta to Priyansh Arya after watching his century : #CSKvsPBKS #priyansharya pic.twitter.com/UGHOthLE4O

— छोटू डॉन (@chotu_donn) April 8, 2025

HUNDRED FOR PRIYANSH ARYA IN JUST 39 BALLS.
WHAT A UNBELIEVABLE TALENT.
CRAZY STUFF.#KKRvLSG pic.twitter.com/G8YYiZhDmB

— 𝔸𝕓𝕓𝕪_🐬 (@A_b__07) April 8, 2025

PRIYANSH ARYA - THE RISING STAR

What a brilliant hundred ❤️

Single Handedly keeps scoreboard moving #PBKSvCSK #CSKvsPBKS pic.twitter.com/GxgeDh2eTj

— Ash (@Ashsay_) April 8, 2025

102(42) 🔥🔥🔥🥵
First Hundred of #IPL2025
PRIYANSH ARYA https://t.co/7n4ADToe4I pic.twitter.com/7g96mnXAPC

— DUSTY (@Dustytweetz_) April 8, 2025

Priyansh aryaa🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
What a knock team under pressure
Hitting century when ur team is 5 wicket down....#CSKvsPBKS pic.twitter.com/BzIvkqeULT

— prince💛 (@Benprincez) April 8, 2025

Century for priyansh arya 🥵💥🙌

Proving his worth
He is here to stay and rule ❤️ pic.twitter.com/W1zzhNaXc0

— Wakeup Sid 🍃 (@wakeup_sid___) April 8, 2025

Fucking insane Priyansh Arya 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Take a bow da dei 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Holy holy holy 🔥🔥🔥🔥

100 against csk damn 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Fucking awesome ra dei 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥#PBKS @PunjabKingsIPL #PBKSvCSK pic.twitter.com/C20GNZ2Y0Y

— BLACK SINGH (PBKS,TN ) 🔥❤️ (@PunjabPbksArmy) April 8, 2025

Century by Priyansh Arya in just 39 balls😍#PBKSvCSK pic.twitter.com/SksiJlyXUX

— Sahil Othi (@SahilOthi11) April 8, 2025

IPL 2025: PBKS vs CSK – Player Battles to Watch Out For

Match Details

• Match: Punjab Kings vs Chennai Super Kings
• Date: April 8th, 2025 (Tuesday)
• Time: 7:30 PM IST
• Venue: Mohali (Chandigarh)

Key Player Duels

Shreyas Iyer vs. Ravichandran Ashwin
Iyer's forte is handling the spinners, but Ashwin's variations and experience may try his patience in the middle overs.

Glenn Maxwell vs. Noor Ahmed
Maxwell's powerful strokeplay against the mystery spin of Noor Ahmed may be a game-changing duel.

Marcus Stoinis vs. Matheesha Pathirana
Stoinis is a fan of clearing the ropes in the death overs, but Pathirana's slingy yorkers can keep him contained at the decisive moments.

MS Dhoni vs. Yuzvendra Chahal
A classic battle, Dhoni’s calm finishing vs Chahal’s clever leg-spin can define the final overs.

Rachin Ravindra vs. Arshdeep Singh
Rachin's aggressive starts could be interrupted by Arshdeep’s swing with the new ball early in the powerplay.

Ruturaj Gaikwad vs. Lockie Ferguson
Gaikwad's timing will be up against Lockie's raw pace and bounce a key face-off in the first 6 overs.

ALSO READ:IPL 2025: KKR vs LSG Prediction– Match 21, Who will win today?

Playing XI:

Punjab Kings Playing XI Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shegde, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

 Chennai Super Kings Playing XI: Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi/ Devon Conway, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Vijay Shankar, Shivam Dube, Ravinzdra Jadeja, MS Dhoni, Jamie Overton/ Anshul Kamboj, Ravichandran Ashwin, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmed Impact Player: Matheesha Pathirana

In a recent IPL match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Harshal Patel found himself at the center of social media controversy after dismissing MS Dhoni for a golden duck.

Harshal Patel’s Dismissal of MS Dhoni

During the match at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Harshal Patel executed a well-disguised slower ball that outsmarted MS Dhoni, resulting in the veteran cricketer’s dismissal on the very first delivery he faced.

See Also: MS Dhoni scripts history in the clash against PBKS

Social Media Backlash Against Harshal Patel

Following Dhoni’s dismissal, some fans of the former CSK skipper directed abuse towards Harshal Patel on various social media platforms. Patel’s recent Instagram post was flooded with negative comments, highlighting the extent of backlash he faced from Dhoni supporters.

Harshal Patel Didn’t Celebrate

Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer Harshal Patel didn’t even celebrate Dhoni’s wicket. He revealed the heartwarming reason why he didn’t celebrate MS Dhoni’s wicket. “I have too much respect for him to celebrate if I get him off,” Harshal told the commentators when asked why he didn’t celebrate Dhoni’s dismissal.

Not the Real Cricket Fans!

This incident underscores a broader issue of online abuse in cricket fandom, where players often face criticism and trolling for their on-field performances. It raises questions about the behaviour of certain fans who engage in such negativity, mainly when directed towards players for executing their skills on the field.

In a significant milestone, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni has etched his name in the annals of IPL history as the wicketkeeper with the most catches.

MS Dhoni’s Achievement in IPL 2024

During the PBKS vs CSK IPL 2024 clash in Dharamshala on May 5, MS Dhoni created history by becoming the first wicketkeeper to complete 150 catches in the IPL. This milestone accentuates Dhoni’s prowess behind the stumps and enduring impact on the game.

See Also: ‘I have too much…’- Harshal Patel speaks about dismissing Dhoni for Golden Duck

Recently, MS Dhoni scripted a new IPL record on April 28 as he became the first player in the history of the T20 tournament to be part of 150 victories. Dhoni achieved the feat after the Super Kings hammered Sunrisers by 78 runs. MS Dhoni has played 259 matches in the IPL, having been a part of the T20 league since the inaugural edition in 2008.

Most catches in IPL by wicketkeepers

Match: PBKS vs CSK

In a thrilling encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 28 runs in the 53rd match of the IPL 2024 at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala.

Batting first, Chennai Super Kings faced early setbacks with the dismissal of Ajinkya Rahane and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. Despite some resistance from the middle order, CSK struggled to accelerate their scoring rate, ultimately posting a total of 167/9.

Rahul Chahar and Harshal Patel both claiming three wickets. Arshdeep Singh took two wickets, while Sam Curran managed to grab one scalp.

In pursuit of 168 runs, Punjab Kings faced a disastrous start, losing key wickets within the first few overs. Despite Prabhsimran Singh’s valiant effort, PBKS struggled to build partnerships and were ultimately restricted to 139/9 in their 20 overs.

Chennai’s bowlers put on a stellar performance, led by Ravindra Jadeja, who claimed three crucial wickets. Impact substitute Simarjeet Singh also made significant contributions.

MS Dhoni’s Legacy in IPL

Dhoni’s contribution to the IPL extends beyond his wicketkeeping prowess. As one of the most successful captains in the tournament’s history, Dhoni’s leadership and strategic acumen have guided CSK to numerous title triumphs. His iconic finishes with the bat and astute decision-making on the field have endeared him to fans worldwide.

In a thrilling encounter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, match 53rd witnessed the Punjab Kings facing defeat for the first time in Dharamsala as they succumbed to a 28-run loss against the Chennai Super Kings on May 5.

CSK’s Batting Performance

Batting first, Chennai Super Kings faced early setbacks with the dismissal of Ajinkya Rahane and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. CSK’s Ajinkya Rahane was dismissed early, scoring just 9 runs. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad also failed to make a significant contribution, getting out for 32 runs. Punjab spinner Rahul Chahar made an immediate impact, claiming two wickets in his first over.

See Also: PCB’s special award waits for Pakistan team if they win T20 World Cup 2024

Shivam Dube faced yet another golden duck. At 101/5 in 12.4 overs, CSK struggled to accelerate their scoring rate towards the end, finishing with a modest total of 167/9.

Ravindra Jadeja top-scored for CSK with 43 runs off 26 balls, hoping to defend their total in the second innings. MS Dhoni was dismissed for a golden duck by Harshal Patel.

Punjab Kings’ Bowling Display

Punjab spinner Rahul Chahar made an immediate impact, claiming two wickets in his first over. Alongside Harshal Patel, who dismissed MS Dhoni for a golden duck, Punjab’s bowlers restricted CSK’s scoring opportunities, ensuring a challenging target for the opposition. Rahul Chahar and Harshal Patel both claiming three wickets. Arshdeep Singh took two wickets, while Sam Curran managed to grab one scalp.

PBKS’ Batting Struggles

In pursuit of 168 runs, Punjab Kings faced a disastrous start, losing key wickets within the first few overs.

Punjab batters had the worst possible start to their chase as opener Jonny Bairstow and Rilee Rossouw got dismissed within the first 2 overs with the score at 9/2. Opener Prabhsimran Singh was the only batter to touch the 30-run mark as wickets at quick intervals saw the PBKS batting order collapse within the first 10 overs. Ravindra Jadeja starred with the ball for the defending champions, taking out 3 batters in his spell. Impact substitute Simarjeet Singh also got himself 2 wickets, as well as Punjab, got themselves restricted at just a paltry 139/9 in their 20 overs.

CSK’s Bowling Dominance

Chennai’s bowlers put on a stellar performance, led by Ravindra Jadeja, who claimed three crucial wickets. Impact substitute Simarjeet Singh also made significant contributions, ensuring that PBKS never gained momentum in their chase.

Ravindra Jadeja’s All-Round Performance

Ravindra Jadeja emerged as the star performer of the match, not only with the ball but also with the bat. His quickfire innings and crucial wickets tipped the balance in CSK’s favor, earning him the Player of the Match title.

With this victory, Chennai Super Kings cemented their position in the top four of the IPL 2024 standings, keeping their playoff aspirations alive.

Double of 40-plus runs & 3 wickets in an IPL game most often
3 – Shane Watson
3 – Yuvraj Singh
3 – Ravindra Jadeja
2 – Andre Russell

Both wicketkeepers dismissed for a duck in an IPL game
RR vs MI, Jaipur, 2010
MI vs RR, Mumbai WS, 2012
MI vs SRH, Mumbai WS, 2018
GT vs DC, Ahmedabad, 2023
PBKS vs CSK, Dharamsala, 2024

PBKS in home games
IPL 2023: 7 matches, 1 win, 6 defeats
IPL 2024: 6 matches, 1 win, 5 defeats
Every other team has won at least four matches at home across the two editions.

PBKS had defeated CSK in each of the last five head-to-head games, which now remains the joint-longest winning streak for any team against CSK alongside MI’s five straight wins across the 2018 and 2019 editions.
CSK’s last win over PBKS came during the IPL 2021 first leg (by 6 wickets at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai).

In a dramatic turn of events during the 53rd match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings, MS Dhoni, the legendary cricketer, suffered a rare failure as he was dismissed for a golden duck by Harshal Patel.

Description of MS Dhoni’s Dismissal

Dhoni, known for his calm demeanor and ability to finish matches under pressure, fell victim to a superb delivery by Harshal Patel that shattered his stumps. The silence that descended upon the stadium was palpable as fans watched in disbelief while Patel celebrated his prized scalp. Dhoni’s dismissal for a golden duck marked a rare and unforgettable moment in his illustrious career.

See Also: Is CSK pacer Matheesha Pathirana ruled out of IPL 2024? Updates

Designated wicketkeepers batting at No.9 or below in the IPL
6 times – Mahesh Rawat (RR, 2008-2009)
Twice – Pinal Shah (MI, 2009)
Once – Uday Kaul (PBKS, 2008)
Once – Wriddhiman Saha (SRH, 2021)
Once – MS Dhoni (CSK, 2024)

Fan Reactions to MS Dhoni’s Dismissal

Social media platforms erupted with a flurry of reactions following Dhoni’s dismissal, with fans expressing shock, disappointment, and disbelief. And some fans criticized Dhoni because he came to bat at No. 9. 

Analysis of CSK’s Performance in the Match

Inconsistencies and missed opportunities marred CSK’s batting performance in the match. Despite promising contributions from players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and David Mitchell, the team needed help to build substantial partnerships and post a competitive total. PBKS now need 168 runs to win the game.

Punjab Kings’ Dominance with the Ball

Credit must be given to the Punjab Kings’ bowlers, who put on a stellar performance to restrict CSK to a modest total. Players like Rahul Chahar and Harshal Patel showcased their bowling prowess, consistently picking up crucial wickets and keeping the CSK batters in check.

PBKS bowling
Rahul Chahar & Harshal Patel: 6/47 from 8 overs (ER: 5.875)
Others: 3/119 from 12 overs (ER: 9.91)

Chennai Super Kings have been dealt a significant blow as their death-bowling specialist, Matheesha Pathirana, has been forced to return to Sri Lanka to recover from a hamstring injury. This setback comes at a crucial juncture for the team as they navigate through the challenges of the IPL season.

Matheesha Pathirana’s Injury

Pathirana leaves a noticeable void in the CSK bowling lineup, particularly in the crucial death overs, where his expertise is invaluable. His ability to deliver under pressure has been a critical asset for the team, making his absence sorely felt on the field.

“Chennai Super Kings pacer Matheesha Pathirana is nursing a hamstring injury and will be returning to Sri Lanka for further recovery,” stated a media release from CSK.

See Also: Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: India will face Pakistan in Slyhet

Absence of Deepak Chahar

The situation is further compounded by the absence of Deepak Chahar, CSK’s powerplay specialist, who is also sidelined due to injury. Chahar’s early departure from the field in a previous match has left CSK grappling with limited options in their bowling department, adding to their woes.

CSK’s Remaining Bowling Options

With Pathirana and Chahar sidelined, CSK faces a challenge in managing their bowling resources effectively. The team will have to rely on alternative options to fill the void left by their key bowlers, with overseas recruit Richard Gleeson emerging as a pivotal figure in the lineup.

Pathirana’s Performance in IPL 2024

Despite his injury setbacks, Pathirana showcased his talent in the IPL 2024 season, significantly contributing to the team’s performance. In the six games he played, he claimed 13 wickets with an economy rate of 7.68, highlighting his importance to the CSK lineup.

Sri Lankan Fast Bowlers Sidelined in IPL

Pathirana’s injury adds to the woes of Sri Lankan fast bowlers in the IPL, with left-armer Dilshan Madushanka also ruled out for the season. The withdrawal of Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s premier leg-spinner, due to chronic heel pain further diminishes the presence of Sri Lankan players in the IPL.