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Ishan Kishan Smashes Big Screen at Chepauk in IPL 2026 Clash vs CSK

Rahul Verma · · 3 min read
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Ishan Kishan Takes Charge at Chepauk

In a high-stakes IPL 2026 clash at the iconic Chepauk Stadium, Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Ishan Kishan provided a masterclass in aggressive batting. During match number 63, the blistering left-hander took the Chennai Super Kings bowling attack to the cleaners, but it was one specific delivery that grabbed headlines for all the wrong—and right—reasons.

Ishan Kishan batting against CSK

Arriving at the crease in the third over following the early departure of Travis Head, Kishan initially navigated the new-ball threat with caution. However, once he settled in, the SRH number three transformed the game. His aggression reached a boiling point in the final over of the powerplay when he faced the tournament’s most successful bowler, Anshul Kamboj. With a brutal pick-up shot, Kishan sent the ball soaring over deep backward square leg. The sheer power of the strike did more than just clear the ropes; it crashed into the stadium’s big screen, causing visible damage to the display.

A Regal Half-Century and Dominant Partnership

Kishan’s innings was a blend of calculated risk and pure timing. After reaching his individual milestone of 14 runs, he accelerated rapidly, showing why he remains one of the most dangerous hitters in the league. Alongside the formidable Heinrich Klaasen, Kishan helped push the ‘Orange Army’ past the 100-run mark with ease.

The wicket-keeper batter eventually brought up his 22nd career IPL half-century in just 37 balls. The landmark knock included five elegant boundaries and two massive sixes. This performance marked his fifth fifty of the 2026 season, keeping him firmly on track to cross the prestigious 500-run milestone for the tournament.

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The Battle at Chepauk: Context and Performance

The match was labeled a ‘must-win’ for both franchises, adding significant pressure to every ball bowled. Chennai Super Kings, led by captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, opted to bat first after winning the toss. Despite the home advantage, CSK struggled to find rhythm, posting a total of 180-7 in their 20 overs. Gaikwad himself faced a tough outing, scoring 15 off 21 balls, while Sanju Samson contributed a quick-fire 27 off 13. Dewald Brevis provided the much-needed middle-order stability with a 27-ball 44, and Kartik Sharma added 32 off 19, including three boundaries and two sixes.

For Sunrisers Hyderabad, captain Pat Cummins led from the front with a spectacular bowling display. The Australian paceman claimed 3-28, removing both CSK openers early to put the visitors in the driver’s seat. Sakib Hussain also proved effective, chipping in with two crucial wickets during his four-over spell.

The Run Chase Dynamics

Chasing 181 for victory, SRH found themselves in a tricky position early when Travis Head was dismissed in the third over. However, the partnership between Kishan and Klaasen proved to be the turning point. Klaasen, known for his explosive hitting, supported Kishan perfectly by smashing six boundaries and two sixes in a swift 47-run knock off just 26 balls.

By the 16th over, SRH had reached 143-3, needing only 38 runs from the final four overs to secure a vital victory. Kishan’s ability to remain composed despite the high pressure of the chase highlights his maturity as a cricketer. As the tournament reaches its business end, this innings serves as a reminder of the sheer talent Kishan possesses when he finds his stride in the middle.

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While the damaged stadium screen will eventually be repaired, the impact of Ishan Kishan’s innings on the points table could be far more permanent. His ability to take on the likes of Anshul Kamboj and clear the boundaries with such regularity has once again solidified his reputation as a premier match-winner in the T20 format.

Rahul Verma

Rahul Verma is a senior cricket correspondent for NDTV Sports, recognised for bringing broadcast‑style clarity and data‑enriched narratives to digital sports journalism. A proud graduate of Hansraj College, University of Delhi, he started his career in radio commentary before moving into newsroom reporting. Rahul’s ability to decode complex match situations with the precision of an analyst and the flair of a storyteller has made him a trusted voice for millions of NDTV viewers and readers. He covers the Indian team across all formats and is a constant presence during the IPL, where he combines ball‑by‑ball coverage with behind‑the‑scenes insights on team strategies. His reporting also shines a light on the thriving grassroots cricket scene in North India, unearthing talent from school tournaments to state‑level age‑group cricket. A recipient of the Exchange4media Broadcasting Award and a RedInk prize, Rahul believes the best cricket stories are told with equal parts data, drama, and heart.