The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 showcases some of the most prominent figures in international cricket, yet repeatedly, emerging talents have demonstrated their readiness to compete with seasoned players and challenge them effectively. Punjab Kings' opening batsman Priyansh Arya delivered what can be considered the standout performance of the tournament to date, scoring an impressive 103 runs off just 42 balls, which significantly undermined the Chennai Super Kings' momentum.

Despite the loss of wickets at the other end, Priyansh continued his aggressive batting, culminating in a remarkable 39-ball century—the fastest ever achieved by an uncapped player in T20 history. This feat also marked the fifth-fastest century in IPL history and the quickest against the five-time champions, CSK. Notably, he displayed remarkable confidence in facing the formidable bowling trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Matheesha Pathirana, and Noor Ahmad.

Priyansh acknowledged the pressure of competing against former India captain MS Dhoni, who had a prime view of the young player's explosive innings. Although he did not have the opportunity to converse with Dhoni post-match due to his media commitments, he expressed a desire to engage with the legendary player. He also shared insights into his strategy for facing Ashwin.

"I feel fortunate to have played alongside him. Very few get such an opportunity, so I consider myself lucky. There was certainly pressure knowing he was watching, along with the legendary bowlers like Ashwin. It was an exhilarating experience. I wanted to speak with Dhoni, but I was occupied with my interview when he left, so I missed that chance," Priyansh Arya stated during a media roundtable on Thursday.

"I anticipated that Ashwin would attempt to restrict my movement, so I decided to play a sweep shot. He indeed tried to cramp me, and I executed that shot without overthinking it. I just focused on hitting the ball," he added. 

At 24 years old, Priyansh continues to make a significant impact in the tournament.

Ricky Ponting has provided me with numerous insights regarding my batting; however, at this moment, I cannot pinpoint a specific piece of advice that I have incorporated into my game. Perhaps it will come to mind when I return to training (laughs), Priyansh remarked in response to a question from Hindustan Times.

"My mindset remained positive, as I did not dwell on anything negative after getting out on the first ball. I aimed to play as much as I could with a constructive attitude. If the ball comes my way, I will strike it. Regarding Ricky, he consistently maintains a positive outlook. I spoke with him, and he reassured me that it was not an issue; after all, it was just the first ball, and anyone can get out. Concerning the pull shot, I frequently discuss it with him, and he continually encourages me to improve in that area," Priyansh explained.

Priyansh reminisced about his initial conversation with the current head coach of India, Gautam Gambhir. During the last domestic cricket season of the former Indian opener, the young player shared how he received a special gift from Gambhir.

"I have gained a great deal from Gautam bhaiya. When I attended the Ranji camp for the first time, I was practicing in the nets when he called me over and presented me with all the new equipment he had used during his career. He gave me an entire kit bag, which he handed to me the following day," Priyansh stated.

How has life changed for Priyansh Arya?

Priyansh Last year, he became a prominent figure in Delhi after hitting six sixes in a single over during the Delhi Premier League. In one remarkable innings, he scored 120 runs, including 10 fours and an equal number of sixes. Priyansh understands that participating in the IPL will elevate his profile nationally and significantly increase his visibility.

"I'll share my experience with the six sixes. Before that moment, I was mostly known in Delhi. Afterward, I received recognition from various places, and many people congratulated me. A lot changed following those six sixes. Getting out for a duck is not a major concern; it's simply part of the game. Whether I score 0 or 100 runs, it’s all part of the experience. I didn’t dwell on it. Shreyas advised me to trust my instincts and play based on my initial thoughts, which proved to be very beneficial," Priyansh remarked.

The left-handed batsman emphasized his commitment to following his instincts and natural style of play. "I had a conversation with Ricky, who encouraged me by saying that if I faced the same delivery in the next match, I would send it over the boundary. That boosted my confidence significantly. I resolved to hit the first ball I faced."

Priyansh expressed gratitude towards his childhood coach, Sanjay Bharadwaj, for his pivotal role in his development. For those unfamiliar, Sanjay Bharadwaj, affectionately known as 'Guruji', has also coached notable players such as Gautam Gambhir, Nitish Rana, and Amit Mishra. "Sanjay sir has been instrumental in my life since my early years. He provides mental strategies to enhance my game. When I was younger, he encouraged me to observe Gautam Gambhir's batting techniques during practice."

"He calls me every day, and I speak with him each morning, as well as before and after matches. His positivity is unwavering. Prior to the IPL, he advised me to concentrate on my cut and pull shots, as bowlers will not simply deliver balls within my hitting range," he concluded.

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