Punjab’s star Arya has the game to be next Kohli

A six off the first ball was just the beginning. The 24-year-old from Delhi, batting like a man on a mission, dismantled Chennai’s seasoned attack with a 103 off 39 balls, leaving even Mahendra Singh Dhoni stumped behind the stumps.

- By A.K.S. SATISH Sports Editor

The Punjab Kings opener tore into the five-time champions at Mullanpur, scoring the second-fastest Indian Premier League century by an Indian and the fourth overall. Arya’s onslaught saw Punjab’s highest total at home — 199 for six, and laid the foundation for an 18-run win.

It wasn’t just a whirlwind century — it was a moment that felt familiar. The flair, the confidence, the hunger — is Arya the next Virat Kohli?

The comparisons may be early, but not unearned. Delhi has produced giants before, and this IPL has a new name lighting up the league.