Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, May 21: Rajasthan Royals wrapped up their Indian Premier League 2025 campaign in style, defeating Chennai Super Kings by six wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Yet again, it was teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi who stole the spotlight, crafting a calm yet classy half-century that cemented his status as the season’s breakout star.
The 14-year-old prodigy, who had earlier grabbed headlines with a blistering 101 against Gujarat Titans, showed maturity beyond his years as he anchored the Royals’ chase with a measured 57 off 33 balls, laced with four sixes and four boundaries. This was his second fifty in just six matches.
Opening alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal (36 off 19), the duo provided a fiery start before Suryavanshi joined hands with skipper Sanju Samson (41 off 31) to stitch a match-winning 98-run stand for the second wicket. He brought up his half-century with a towering six off Noor Ahmad, having earlier dispatched Ravindra Jadeja for two big hits into the stands.
Though Royals briefly wobbled from 135/2 to 158/4, finishing the chase of 188 appeared a formality once Dhruv Jurel (31 off 12) and Shimron Hetmyer (12 off 5) took over, sealing the deal with time to spare.
Put in to bat, CSK had a nightmare start with just 12 runs for the loss of two wickets, both snapped up by Yudhvir Singh (3/47). However, young Ayush Mhatre continued his fine form, hammering 43 off 20 balls to bring some stability to the innings.
With Dewald Brevis (42 off 25) and Shivam Dube (39 off 32) guiding the middle overs, CSK posted a competitive 187. But the absence of a late flourish hurt them, as MS Dhoni managed just 16 off 17 balls.
The veteran captain, however, achieved a personal milestone, becoming the fourth Indian to hit 350 sixes in T20s, joining an elite club that includes Rohit Sharma (542), Virat Kohli (434) and Suryakumar Yadav (368). Globally, Chris Gayle continues to lead with an astonishing 1,056 sixes.
Post-match, Dhoni lauded the new generation but reminded them about the importance of consistency.
“They have the ability to hit sixes at any stage. But if you’re aiming for a 200-plus strike rate, then consistency is difficult. Don’t take pressure, even when expectations rise,” he said.
“Learn from seniors and the coaching staff... It’s about reading the game. That’s my advice to all the youngsters who’ve done well.”
With talents like Suryavanshi and Mhatre making headlines, IPL 2025 may well be remembered as the season that ushered in Indian cricket’s next generation.