Chennai Super Kings’ young pacer Matheesha Pathirana produced a spectacular moment in the IPL 2025 clash against Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. Known for his express pace rather than his fielding skills, the 22-year-old Sri Lankan stunned everyone with a breathtaking catch to dismiss RR’s wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel.
The moment unfolded in the 14th over when Noor Ahmad delivered a full-length ball outside off. Jurel attempted a booming lofted drive over the covers but failed to time it well. The ball took a thick edge and ballooned towards Pathirana at short cover. Reacting swiftly, the CSK speedster sprinted forward and flung himself full length to grab a stunning low catch, sending Jurel back for just 3 off 7 balls.
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During the toss, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad acknowledged the quick turnaround between games and the overwhelming support from the crowd. He announced two changes—Jamie Overton replacing Sam Curran and Vijay Shankar coming in for Deepak Hooda.
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On the other hand, RR’s stand-in captain Riyan Parag, leading the side at his home ground, admitted he would have preferred to bowl first as well. He emphasized the importance of a complete team effort and retained the same playing XI for the Royals.
Chennai Super Kings XI: Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Ruturaj Gaikwad (capt), Vijay Shankar, Ravindra Jadeja, Jamie Overton, MS Dhoni (wk), R Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matheesha Pathirana
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Rajasthan Royals XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Nitish Rana, Riyan Parag (capt), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Shimron Hetmyer, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jofra Archer, Maheesh Theekshana, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma
