Image: Shreyas Gopal, Karnataka's leg-spinner, achieved a remarkable hat-trick / © Crictoday
After securing a successful bid from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for ₹30 lakhs in the IPL 2025 Auction, Shreyas Gopal wasted no time in showcasing his brilliance. Representing Karnataka in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the 31-year-old leg-spinner delivered a game-changing performance against Baroda, claiming a sensational hat-trick.
Gopal dismissed Baroda’s captain Krunal Pandya and his brother Hardik Pandya for golden ducks, alongside Shashwat Rawat, who had smashed an explosive 63 off 37 balls. His 4/19 spell not only turned the match into a gripping contest but also solidified his reputation as a clutch performer.
Although Karnataka eventually lost the game by four wickets, Gopal’s heroics stood out as the defining moment of the match. Baroda recovered through a steady partnership between Bhanu Pania and Vishnu Solanki to chase down Karnataka’s target of 170. However, Gopal’s ability to deliver under pressure has sparked excitement among CSK fans, who eagerly await his contribution to IPL 2025.
Known for thriving on spin-friendly tracks like Chepauk, Gopal is expected to complement CSK’s seasoned bowlers, including Ravichandran Ashwin. His standout performance underscores his readiness to take on bigger challenges, raising expectations for a stellar IPL season.