In a thrilling encounter at the IPL 2025, the clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) delivered an early highlight that set the tone for the match. CSK pacer Khaleel Ahmed produced a moment of magic, dismantling PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer’s off-stump in spectacular fashion during the third over of the game. The dismissal, which saw the stump cartwheeling out of the ground, handed CSK a crucial breakthrough and electrified fans at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur.
The build-up: PBKS opt to bat first
The match began with PBKS winning the toss and electing to bat, a decision influenced by the batting-friendly reputation of the Mullanpur pitch. Shreyas Iyer, leading from the front, walked out after Mukesh Chaudhary had dismissed opener Prabhsimran Singh for duck.
Iyer, who had been in scintillating form throughout the tournament, was expected to anchor the innings and guide PBKS to a competitive total against a formidable CSK bowling attack spearheaded by the likes of Khaleel and Ravindra Jadeja. However, the third over, bowled by Khaleel, turned the game on its head.
Also READ: Fans go berserk as LSG hold nerve to survive Rinku Singh storm in a thrilling encounter against KKR in IPL 2025
Khaleel sends Shreyas Iyer’s off-stump cartwheeling
Khaleel, known for his ability to swing the ball and generate pace, came charging in with purpose. Having conceded a six earlier in the over—a lofted cover drive from Iyer that showcased the PBKS skipper’s class—Khaleel adjusted his length and angle. The breakthrough ball was a beauty: a full-length delivery that pitched on middle and angled away late, deceiving Iyer completely.
Iyer, lured into a drive, committed to the shot too early. The ball zipped past his outside edge and crashed into the off-stump, sending it tumbling out of the ground in dramatic fashion. The Mullanpur crowd gasped as the stump took flight, and Khaleel let out a roar, pumping his fists in celebration. Iyer, visibly stunned, walked off for 9 runs off 7 balls, his brief cameo ending with one six to his name.
Here is the video:
— IPL (@WatchIPLvideos) April 8, 2025
