Former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu expressed his admiration for Punjab Kings' rising star, Priyansh Arya, who achieved the remarkable feat of scoring the second-fastest century in IPL history by an Indian player. This milestone was reached during a match against Chennai Super Kings in Chandigarh, where Arya's explosive 42-ball 103 played a crucial role in securing a victory for Punjab.

Having previously caught attention with his performance in the Delhi Premier League last year, Arya showcased his potential in Punjab's opening match this season. However, it was on Tuesday that he truly shone, delivering a relentless assault on Chennai's bowlers to achieve his first century in just 39 balls, featuring seven fours and nine sixes that lit up the field.

This remarkable inning marked the fifth-fastest century in IPL history and the second quickest by an Indian, following Yusuf Pathan's 37-ball blitz for Rajasthan Royals against Mumbai Indians in 2010.

'After Sachin, Priyansh Arya is the 2nd batter who's...

After Punjab's victory over Chennai by 18 runs at home, Navjot took to social media to share a video in which he called for the attention of BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar. In the video, he drew comparisons between Priyansh Arya and not only the legendary Sachin Tendulkar but also other cricketing greats like Mohammad Azharuddin and Gundappa Vishwanath. The seasoned commentator expressed his belief that Arya would soon secure a place in the Indian team, citing his fearless performance against experienced players such as Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin during the match.

"Priyansh Arya, mark my words, he will represent India, and for a significant duration. After Sachin Tendulkar, he is the second batsman who is truly exceptional. Why do I assert this? Consider the conditions under which he achieved that 42-ball century and the caliber of bowlers he faced, all while maintaining a strike rate of approximately 250. While Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, and Prabhsimran Singh were dismissed, he displayed wristwork reminiscent of Azharuddin and Gundappa Vishwanath. He hit sixes over point and cover, then utilized the same wrist action to clear the mid-wicket boundary. His scoring was comprehensive. And who were the bowlers he confronted? Pathirana, Jadeja, Ashwin, who boasts over 500 Test wickets, and Noor. Not only did he face these formidable bowlers, but he also played a crucial role in securing Punjab's victory, which was truly remarkable," he stated.

Punjab will next travel to Hyderabad to take on the Sunrisers on Saturday before returning home to face Kolkata Knight Riders on April 15.

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