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The IPL 2025 clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Saturday, was a thrilling affair at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
RR, put in to bat first, set a competitive target of 183 runs, thanks to Nitish Rana’s explosive knock of 81 off just 36 balls. Despite losing early wickets, Rana’s aggressive batting ensured RR posted a solid total of 182/9 in their allotted overs.
Shivam Dube’s aggression meets Riyan Parag’s brilliance
As CSK began their chase, they lost an early wicket and found themselves at 46/2 when Shivam Dube walked in. Known for his ability to clear boundaries with ease, Dube wasted no time and smashed a boundary and two sixes to put pressure back on RR. However, Wanindu Hasaranga’s clever bowling set up a crucial moment in the game.
Dube attempted an aerial shot off Hasaranga’s delivery, but Riyan Parag—positioned at cover—pulled off an extraordinary one-handed diving catch. The ball seemed destined to touch the ground, but Parag’s athleticism ensured he completed the catch cleanly. Replays confirmed the brilliance of the effort, sending Dube back to the pavilion and reducing CSK to 72/3 in 9.3 overs.
Parag’s celebration lights up the stadium
What followed Parag’s stunning catch was an unforgettable celebration that electrified the crowd. The young all-rounder sprinted across the field, thumping his chest and punching the air in sheer joy. Known for his calm demeanour on most occasions, this display of raw emotion highlighted his passion and commitment to his team.
Fans erupted in applause as Parag’s celebration quickly became a viral sensation on social media. Cricket commentators and analysts praised his energy and leadership qualities, calling it one of the standout moments of IPL 2025 so far.
Here’s the video:
Captain Riyan Parag replies with a fantastic catch 🤯#CSK lose Shivam Dube in the chase
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/V2QijpWpGO#TATAIPL | #RRvCSK | @rajasthanroyals pic.twitter.com/fPG0OhNcyg
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 30, 2025
Also WATCH: Shimron Hetmyer grabs a match-changing catch of MS Dhoni, denies CSK a thrilling win over RR
RR holds their nerve despite CSK’s fightback
Although Parag’s catch shifted momentum in RR’s favour, CSK fought back valiantly in their chase. Contributions from Ruturaj Gaikwad (42 off 34) and Ravindra Jadeja (32 not out off 22) kept CSK within striking distance of victory. However, disciplined bowling from RR ensured that CSK fell short by six runs, finishing at 176/8.
RR finally registered their first win of IPL 2025 after suffering two consecutive losses earlier in the tournament. Parag played a key role not only with his fielding but also with his batting performance, scoring a crucial 37 runs off 28 balls.
