Chahal Hat-Trick, Ends Chennai's Playoff Hopes
A remarkable four-wicket over, including a hat-trick, from leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal dramatically altered the course of the Indian Premier League match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Wednesday, April 30th. Chahal's bowling bought in a stunning collapse, restricting CSK before Punjab Kings had a tense finish to secure a vital four-wicket victory at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, eliminating Chennai from playoff contention.
Sam Curran Anchors Chennai Innings
After being put into bat, Chennai Super Kings recovered from early setbacks (22/2) primarily through an excellent innings from Sam Curran. Promoted to number three, Curran played with authority against both pace and spin, compiling a superb 88 off just 47 balls. His knock, particularly his aggressive batting against spinner Suryansh Shedge in the 16th over, provided CSK with a strong platform (160/4 after 16 overs), ended with a total of 190.
Chahal's Sensational Over
The match turned irrevocably in the 19th over. With CSK looking to maximise their finish, captain Shreyas Iyer brought Yuzvendra Chahal back into the attack. After being hit for six off the first legal delivery by MS Dhoni, Chahal responded sensationally. He dismissed Dhoni caught in the deep next ball, then claimed the wickets of Deepak Hooda, Anshul Kamboj, and Noor Ahmad with the final three deliveries to complete his second IPL hat-trick and claim four wickets in the over. This spell saw CSK collapse dramatically, losing their last five wickets for just six runs in seven balls, eventually being bowled out for 190 with four balls unused.
Punjab Pace Chase Through
In pursuit of 191, Punjab Kings established control through their top order. After a steady opening partnership, Prabhsimran Singh played the aggressor role, scoring a crucial half-century. Captain Shreyas Iyer then took charge following Prabhsimran's dismissal, accelerating significantly to also reach his fifty. Their partnership ensured PBKS remained well ahead of the required rate for most of the chase, seemingly cruising towards victory.
Despite being in a commanding position needing just three runs off nine balls, Punjab experienced a moment of late tension. Shreyas Iyer was bowled attempting a finishing shot, and another wicket fell shortly after, leaving the scores level with three balls remaining. However, Marco Jansen managed an inside edge for four, securing the four-wicket victory for Punjab Kings.
