Sam Curran’s valiant innings wasn’t enough, as CSK were knocked out of the IPL 2025 playoff race. Sam Curran showcased resilience in challenging conditions with a commanding 88, but his valiant effort wasn’t enough as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) suffered a heavy defeat to Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL. The loss officially knocked CSK out of the IPL 2025 playoff race.
Curran’s knock, his first fifty of the season, came at a critical moment after CSK stumbled early with three quick wickets following PBKS’s decision to bowl first. Teaming up with Dewald Brevis, Curran stitched together a solid 78-run partnership for the fourth wicket, putting pressure on the PBKS bowling attack before the momentum slipped away.
Sam Curran’s Celebration Sends a Message to CSK
After reaching his half-century, Sam Curran made a phone call gesture directed toward the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp. Curran, who was released by Punjab Kings last season, has featured in only four matches for CSK this season. His celebratory gesture appeared to suggest that he believes he should have been given more opportunities in the playing XI.
He's been busy at the crease today 💛
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 30, 2025
Sam Curran with a 5️⃣0️⃣ and going strong 💪
His first of the season 👏
Updates ▶ https://t.co/eXWTTv7Xhd #TATAIPL | #CSKvPBKS | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/tTDSBe3GoK
Sam Curran seems to having issue with Punjab management pic.twitter.com/8qNS3aA2XU
— MSDian (@NitinMudiyala) April 30, 2025
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been knocked out of the IPL playoffs race for the second consecutive season a first in their history. Adding to their woes, CSK suffered their fifth straight loss at Chepauk, another unwanted record.
In terms of head-to-head, CSK and Punjab Kings (PBKS) are now level at 16-16. However, PBKS have clearly dominated recent encounters, winning seven of their last eight meetings, including all three matches at Chepauk since 2023.
In this match, PBKS won the toss and chose to bowl. CSK were in early trouble at 48/3, but a 78-run stand between Sam Curran and Dewald Brevis (32 off 26) revived the innings. Curran led the charge with a brilliant 88 off 47 balls, smashing nine fours and four sixes. However, Yuzvendra Chahal’s hat-trick (4/32) triggered a collapse, and CSK were all out for 190 in 19.2 overs. Arshdeep Singh also impressed, taking 2/25.
In response, PBKS started strong with a 44-run opening stand. Prabhsimran Singh (54 off 36) and captain Shreyas Iyer (72 off 41) built a solid foundation. Despite losing late wickets, PBKS chased down the target, winning by four wickets with two balls to spare.
