Chandigarh, Apr 8 (UNI) Punjab Kings’ newest sensation Priyansh Arya etched his name into the Indian Premier League (IPL) history books with a blistering century off just 39 balls against Chennai Super Kings here on Tuesday, becoming the fastest uncapped player to score a hundred in the league.
The 22-year-old right-hander’s whirlwind knock not only stunned the CSK bowling attack but also thrilled the home fans at the new Mullanpur stadium, who bore witness to an innings of rare audacity and flair. With this innings, Priyansh joined the elite list of fastest hundreds in IPL history — tied with Travis Head (2024) and behind only Chris Gayle (30 balls, 2013), Yusuf Pathan (37 balls, 2010) and David Miller (38 balls, 2013).
Walking in with PBKS in a tricky spot, Priyansh unleashed an array of fearless shots, dismantling the likes of Matheesha Pathirana and Ravindra Jadeja with remarkable composure. His innings was a mix of raw power and unorthodox elegance, reminiscent of his exploits in the Delhi Premier League where he famously struck six sixes in an over.
The moment of glory came in the 13th over when he reached the landmark off a Pathirana delivery — a full ball angled into the pads. Trying to flick it, he got a thick edge that ran past short third man to the boundary. What followed was a roar from the fans, as Priyansh removed his helmet, raised his bat to the skies, and soaked in the thunderous applause. His jubilant teammates in the dugout erupted in celebration.
Priyansh’s century joins an exclusive club of IPL hundreds by uncapped players, including Shaun Marsh (2008), Manish Pandey (2009), Paul Valthaty (2011), Devdutt Padikkal (2021), Rajat Patidar (2022), Yashasvi Jaiswal (2022), and Prabhsimran Singh (2023).
More than just a milestone, this innings is likely to change the course of Priyansh Arya’s cricketing journey, drawing the attention of national selectors and setting the stage for a promising future.
