The 62nd match of IPL 2025 between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi produced one of the most breathtaking moments of the season — a sensational diving catch by 19-year-old RR pacer Kwena Maphaka to dismiss CSK’s rising star Ayush Mhatre.
The 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre, who burst onto the scene mid-season as an injury replacement, has been one of the biggest finds for CSK this year. With fearless strokeplay and maturity beyond his years, Ayush quickly secured his place in the top order. His 94-run masterclass against Royal Challengers Bengaluru had already turned heads, and he continued his form against Rajasthan with a blistering 43 off just 20 balls, studded with 8 boundaries and a towering six.
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However, just as he looked set for another big one, Tushar Deshpande produced a clever full delivery in the slot during the sixth over. Ayush went for the big shot down the ground but failed to connect cleanly, slicing it off the bottom of the bat. The ball seemed destined to fall safe — until Maphaka intervened.
Spectacular skills on display, ft. Kwena Maphaka 😍
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Sprinting in from the boundary, the South African teenager showcased his athletic brilliance. He judged the ball’s trajectory perfectly, flung himself forward, and pulled off a jaw-dropping catch inches from the turf. It was a moment that not only ended Mhatre’s promising knock but also turned the momentum in Rajasthan’s favour.
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Maphaka’s stunning grab added to his growing reputation as one of the most exciting young fielders in the tournament. For Mhatre, it was a rare failure in an otherwise stellar debut season — but one that ended with a reminder of how brutal and beautiful the game can be.
