Chennai Super Kings’ latest signing, Shreyas Gopal, showcased his brilliance in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy by securing a sensational hat-trick. Representing Karnataka against Baroda in Indore, Gopal claimed the prized wickets of Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya off consecutive deliveries, highlighting his match-winning potential ahead of the IPL 2025 season.
Gopal’s Heroics Fall Short in Thrilling Encounter
Set a target of 170, Baroda appeared to be in control with a commanding 102/1 at the halfway mark. However, Shreyas Gopal turned the game on its head in the 11th over. He started by dismissing opener Shashwat Rawat and then delivered back-to-back golden ducks to Hardik and Krunal Pandya, completing his hat-trick in dramatic fashion.
Gopal wasn’t done yet, as he went on to dismiss Bhanu Punia for his fourth wicket, finishing with impressive figures of 4/19. Despite his heroics, Baroda’s Vishnu Solanki steered his team to victory in the penultimate over, securing a four-wicket win.
Baroda and Karnataka in Group B Standings
Following the match, Baroda climbed to the third spot in Group B with 20 points, trailing Saurashtra and Gujarat. Karnataka, on the other hand, remains in fourth place with 12 points.
CSK’s New Acquisition
Shreyas Gopal, who was picked up by Chennai Super Kings for INR 30 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega auction in Saudi Arabia, has been in stellar form. With 10 wickets in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Gopal has reaffirmed his value as a match-winning all-rounder.
After representing Kerala last season in domestic cricket, Gopal returned to his home state, Karnataka, for the 2024-25 season. Over the years, he has made a mark in the IPL, playing 49 matches and claiming 49 wickets at an average of 26.16 and an economy rate of 8.11.
Previous IPL Glory
Gopal’s IPL journey includes stints with Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad. His career-defining moment came in 2019 when he took a hat-trick for Rajasthan Royals against Royal Challengers Bangalore, dismissing Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Marcus Stoinis.
With his current form and proven track record, Shreyas Gopal is expected to be a key player for CSK in the upcoming IPL season, adding depth to their bowling attack and enhancing their chances of reclaiming the title.
