Suryansh Shedge, the 22-year-old all-rounder currently representing Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, has quickly become one of the most talked-about newcomers this season. Despite a challenging debut in the match against Chennai Super Kings, where he conceded 26 runs in a single over to Sam Curran, Shedge’s domestic record and overall potential have marked him as one of the most promising names to emerge in recent times.

Impressive domestic run sets stage for IPL call-up

Shedge’s selection by Punjab Kings was not without reason. His performances in the 2024-25 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy were a standout. Playing for Mumbai, Shedge scored 131 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 251.92 and also took 8 wickets. His unbeaten 36 off just 12 deliveries in a knockout game earned praise from senior players, including an appreciative gesture from none other than Suryakumar Yadav.

His all-round consistency in the domestic circuit extended to the longer format as well. In the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy, he came close to a century against Tripura, scoring 99 runs and demonstrating composure under pressure—an essential trait for the big stage.

Tough IPL debut, but a valuable lesson

Shedge’s IPL debut wasn’t smooth sailing. Playing at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, he was introduced into the bowling attack against an aggressive Sam Curran. Curran seized the moment and struck 26 runs in Shedge’s over, a moment that exposed Shedge to the unforgiving pace of T20 at the highest level.

However, such experiences, though harsh, often serve as turning points in a player’s career. Shedge has taken this on his chin, and his mental resilience will be crucial as he adapts to the fast-paced dynamics of the IPL.

Future looks bright for Punjab Kings’ young gun

Despite the tough outing, Shedge’s strengths—explosive lower-order batting, finishing skills, and useful bowling—remain undeniable. His versatility provides Punjab Kings with a promising long-term asset who can be groomed into a dependable all-rounder.

As the season progresses, and with guidance from the experienced campaigners around him, Shedge is expected to evolve. His journey from the Mumbai circuit to the IPL stage is already inspiring for many young cricketers.

In a dramatic turn of events during the IPL 2025 clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Punjab Kings (PBKS), English all-rounder Sam Curran delivered a sensational 88-run knock but found himself at the center of controversy after an on-field altercation and cryptic gestures towards his own camp.

CSK knocked out despite Curran’s heroics

Sam Curran’s gritty 88 off 47 balls, featuring nine boundaries and four sixes, offered CSK a fighting chance after an early collapse saw them struggling at 48/3. Partnering with Dewald Brevis, who contributed 32 runs off 26 deliveries, Curran helped resurrect CSK’s innings with a vital 78-run stand for the fourth wicket.

However, the innings crumbled after a hat-trick by Yuzvendra Chahal, who took 4/32, triggering a collapse from 172/4 to 190 all out in 19.2 overs. Arshdeep Singh was equally effective, returning with figures of 2/25.

Tense moments unfold on and off the field

Beyond the cricketing action, tensions soared as Curran was seen making a “phone call” gesture directed at someone in the CSK camp after reaching his first half-century of the season. The gesture appeared to be a statement over limited game time this season, with Curran featuring in only four matches.

The drama intensified following his dismissal in the 18th over when Curran was caught on camera having a heated verbal exchange with individuals in the PBKS dugout. A viral clip on social media showed the visibly agitated Englishman gesturing toward the Punjab management, possibly reflecting residual tension from his previous stint with the franchise.

PBKS chase down target, continue dominance over CSK

In reply, PBKS got off to a brisk start with Priyansh Arya (23 off 15) and Prabhsimran Singh setting the tone. Prabhsimran’s 54 and skipper Shreyas Iyer’s commanding 72 off 41 balls ensured PBKS reached the 191-run target with four wickets in hand and just two deliveries remaining. Shashank Singh chipped in with a valuable 23 off 12 as PBKS clinched another win over CSK.

Historic low for CSK at Chepauk

This loss marks a new low for CSK as they bow out of the playoffs race for the second consecutive year — a first in their IPL history. Additionally, they’ve now suffered five straight defeats at their fortress, Chepauk. PBKS’s dominance continues, having won seven of their last eight encounters against CSK, including three at Chepauk since 2023.

MS Dhoni, the legendary cricketer and former Chennai Super Kings captain, has once again left fans speculating about his future in the Indian Premier League. Speaking ahead of CSK’s match against Punjab Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, the 42-year-old responded cryptically to questions regarding his participation in the next season of the IPL.

When asked during the toss if he planned to return for IPL 2026, Dhoni smiled and quipped, “I don’t know, I am coming for the next game (laughs).” This playful yet evasive answer has added fuel to the ongoing speculation about whether this could be his final season.

CSK’s disappointing run in IPL 2025

Dhoni also shared his thoughts on Chennai Super Kings’ underwhelming performance this season. With just two wins in nine matches, CSK is precariously placed at the bottom of the points table and faces elimination if they lose to Punjab Kings.

“This season hasn’t worked for us. We have always been a team that avoids too many changes, but this year we’ve had to make several adjustments,” Dhoni remarked. He pointed out that despite entering the season with a similar core group, the team hasn’t been able to fully utilise home advantage, which he believes is critical in the tournament.

Highlighting the impact of the post-auction squad changes, Dhoni said, “It’s the first season after a fresh auction. You plan roles for players, but you also need to see where they actually fit best.”

Match details and changes

Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, won the toss and opted to bowl first. They made two changes, bringing in Harpreet Brar and Suryansh Shedge in place of Prabhsimran Singh and Glenn Maxwell. CSK fielded an unchanged playing XI.

Captain Iyer commented on his team’s approach, saying, “Preparations have been good and the team is in high spirits. We’re just taking things step by step.” He also confirmed that an unnamed player has sustained a fractured finger, and a replacement is yet to be confirmed.

As CSK fights to stay in contention and fans continue to wonder about Dhoni’s future, the focus remains on the former India captain’s every move — both on and off the field.