March 31, 2025: Rajasthan Royals’ leg-spinner, Wanindu Hasaranga, became the center of attention after his sensational four-wicket haul led his team to their first win of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. However, it wasn’t just his impressive bowling that caught the eye of fans and commentators alike. Hasaranga added a touch of filmy flair to his performance by celebrating a key wicket with the iconic “Pushpa” style move, taken from the hit South Indian movie “Pushpa.”
After dismissing key Chennai Super Kings (CSK) players, including Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and Rahul Tripathi, Hasaranga decided to celebrate his success with a move inspired by the blockbuster film, “Pushpa,” starring Allu Arjun. The celebration quickly went viral, with fans excited by Hasaranga’s love for South Indian cinema and his ability to bring a fun twist to the game.
“I love to watch Telugu, Malayalam, and Tamil films, and I got that from the Pushpa film,” Hasaranga shared after the match. His celebration was a tribute to the movie, where the main character, portrayed by Allu Arjun, is known for his distinctive mannerisms and gestures, adding a unique and charismatic touch to his persona.
Hasaranga’s stellar bowling performance saw him dismantling CSK’s batting line-up, finishing with figures of 4/35 in his four overs. He struck early by sending Rahul Tripathi back to the pavilion on the very first ball of the match, and later removed some of CSK’s key batters, including the dangerous Ruturaj Gaikwad. The wicket of Gaikwad stood out for Hasaranga, as the CSK opener had been in top form, scoring a quick 63 before falling prey to the Sri Lankan spinner.
“The wicket I enjoyed the most was Ruturaj Gaikwad’s because he’s a really good player. He batted really well, and at the end of the innings, I got him out. Riyan Parag took a brilliant catch, and Hetmyer was also great in the field,” Hasaranga said.
In the end, Rajasthan Royals successfully defended their total of 182/9, with CSK falling short by six runs. Hasaranga, along with fellow spinner Maheesh Theekshana, played crucial roles in breaking the back of CSK’s chase. The two spinners were instrumental in controlling the middle overs and ensuring the Super Kings never gained momentum.
Despite the loss, Hasaranga exuded confidence in his team’s bowling attack, noting the depth and balance they had, especially in the middle overs. “We have a really good bowling attack, especially in the middle, myself and Maheesh (Theekshana). We have different roles to play, sometimes with the old ball and sometimes in the middle,” he added.
With his four-wicket haul and memorable celebration, Hasaranga not only secured a significant win for Rajasthan Royals but also ensured his place as one of the most exciting players of IPL 2025.