IPL 2025: Rachin Ravindra hits cheerleader of Punjab Kings during run chase | Watch Video

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PBKS vs CSK: It was a night of boundaries, blistering pace, and a bit of bizarre at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Stadium in Mullanpur. During Match 22 of IPL 2025 between Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings, Rachin Ravindra's explosive strokeplay took a dramatic turn-his powerful shot during the powerplay ended up injuring a Punjab Kings cheerleader, sending shockwaves across the internet.

The incident occurred in the sixth over of Chennai's run chase of a daunting 220-run target. Marco Jansen, steaming in with intent, bowled one short and wide outside off. Ravindra, ever the elegant southpaw, rocked back and smoked it over the infield with brutal timing.

The ball, destined for the boundary between square leg and midwicket, took a bounce past the ropes and slammed into a cheerleader stationed just beyond the advertising hoardings.

Visibly in pain, the cheerleader clutched her right hand and was seen tearing up. The moment of anguish spread across social media like wildfire, with fans expressing concern while also reacting with a mix of disbelief and sympathy. The camera panned to the dugouts and stands, where stunned reactions were followed by a murmur of concern for the injured cheerleader. Despite the unintentional nature of the incident, it highlighted how the game's thrill sometimes comes at an unexpected cost.

Rachin Ravindra, who scored a brisk 37 off 23 balls, including six fours, continued for a few more deliveries before falling prey to Glenn Maxwell in the seventh over. His departure came shortly after the shocking incident-something fans noted as a twist of fate.

Before this dramatic turn, the evening had already exploded with a showstopper from Punjab's young sensation Priyansh Arya. The Delhi-born right-hander unleashed mayhem on the CSK bowlers, notching up a century in just 39 balls-the fourth-fastest in IPL history. Arya's 103-run blitz, supported by a handy 50 from Shashank Singh, propelled Punjab to a formidable 219/6 after opting to bat first.

Chennai's reply began on a promising note with the Kiwi duo-Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra-blasting their way to 39/0 in four overs. The middle overs, however, brought mixed fortunes. Shivam Dube's solid 42 off 28 was cut short by Lockie Ferguson, and with 69 required off the last 25 balls, all eyes turned to MS Dhoni, who walked out to join a set Devon Conway (60* off 43).

Despite drops, fielding errors, and a few missed chances-especially a forgettable 12th over for Jansen-the contest remained gripping. Twitter buzzed with commentary that ranged from tactical debates about CSK's batting order to empathy for the injured cheerleader. One post read, "Rachin hits a cheerleader with a boundary-painful reminder of how real cricket gets beyond the ropes!"

At 152/3 in 16 overs, with CSK needing 68 off 24, the climax promises fireworks. But amidst the cricketing theatrics, the moment that stood out was one of human vulnerability-where celebration collided with unintended harm.

As IPL 2025 continues to deliver drama on all fronts, this incident will surely remain etched as a reminder that behind every soaring six or driven four, there are faces not always shielded by helmets or gloves.