Mullanpur, Chandigarh April 8 – In a high-scoring IPL 2025 clash between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), an unexpected moment stole the spotlight Devon Conway retiring out during a tense chase. PBKS hosted CSK in Match 22 at the Mullanpur Cricket Stadium, and while Punjab secured an 18-run win, all eyes were on Conway’s rare mid-innings exit.
Chasing a big total of 220 runs, CSK found themselves under pressure from the start. Devon Conway, the experienced New Zealand opener, stood strong on one end, playing the anchor role with smooth timing and occasional big hits. He looked solid and composed, scoring 69 runs off 49 balls. His knock was crucial in keeping CSK’s hopes alive as the required run rate kept climbing.
With MS Dhoni’s arrival at the crease, the momentum started to shift. The crowd erupted as Dhoni launched a few big hits, and the chase began to feel alive again. At this point, fans expected Conway to stay till the end and guide CSK closer to victory along with Dhoni.
However, what happened next left fans both shocked and confused.
Devon Conway Retire Out Against PBKS – A Bold CSK Move Shocks Fans
In the 18th over of CSK’s innings, at 17.5 overs to be precise, Devon Conway was suddenly retired out. He walked back to the pavilion despite being unbeaten on 69 from 49 balls a decision made by the CSK management to bring in Ravindra Jadeja for the final overs.
The move surprised fans and cricket experts alike. Many took to social media to express their confusion, wondering why a well-set batter would be taken off at such a crucial stage of the chase.
CSK’s strategy seemed to focus on getting a power-hitter like Jadeja in for the final 12 balls, possibly hoping for fresh energy and quick runs. However, the plan didn’t work out as intended. Jadeja only managed 9 runs from 5 deliveries, and CSK eventually fell short, losing their fourth match out of five played this season.
After the match, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad clarified the unusual decision.
“Devon is more of a timer of the ball. Very useful at the top of the order. Jaddu, his role is completely different. You know the batsman is struggling. We waited for him to time it and then changed when we thought it was necessary,” said Gaikwad.
So, it was a tactical move. CSK felt Conway wasn’t able to accelerate in the death overs and believed Jadeja might have a better chance to deliver big hits under pressure.
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