The 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League has been filled with familiar faces and star-studded performances, but once again, it’s the next generation making headlines. Punjab Kings’ emerging opener Priyansh Arya delivered what many are calling the standout innings of the tournament so far — a breathtaking 103 off just 42 deliveries that left Chennai Super Kings reeling and the cricketing world buzzing.
In a display of sheer dominance, Priyansh didn’t let the fall of wickets at the other end affect his rhythm. Instead, he accelerated with composure and power, eventually bringing up his century in just 39 balls. This milestone wasn’t just personal — it shattered records. It became the fastest hundred by an uncapped player in IPL history, the fifth-fastest overall, and the quickest ever scored against the five-time champions, CSK.
What made the knock even more remarkable was his fearless approach against some of the most seasoned bowlers in the league. With Ravichandran Ashwin, Matheesha Pathirana, and Noor Ahmad in the attack, many would’ve opted for caution — but Priyansh saw it as an opportunity.
“I am very lucky that I was able to play with him. Obviously, very few people get a chance like this. So I feel very lucky that I was able to play with him. There was obviously pressure that he was standing behind, and the bowlers were also legends. Like Ashwin, sir. So it was a very good feeling to play with him. And I wanted to talk to him [Dhoni] but I couldn’t because I was busy with my interview and he left. So I couldn’t talk to him, but I really wanted to talk to him,” said Priyansh Arya during a media roundtable on Thursday.
The presence of MS Dhoni, watching from behind the stumps, only heightened the occasion for the young batter. Though Priyansh admitted to feeling the pressure of performing with Dhoni so close, he never let it show in his strokeplay. Unfortunately, the opportunity to speak with the legendary former India captain eluded him after the match.
Still, the impression was made. Priyansh Arya’s performance not only earned him plaudits across the cricketing spectrum but also reinforced the IPL’s reputation as a launchpad for India’s future stars — unafraid, undeterred, and ready to shine on the biggest stage.
