IPL: CSK scamper for replacements as star pacer ruled out due to hamstring injury

IPL: Chennai Super Kings are hunting for a replacement for their star fast bowler Nathan Ellis. CSK CEO has confirmed that Ellis, has been ruled out of the season due to a hamstring injury.

Chennai Super Kings have been dealt a major blow ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. CSK’s death-overs specialist Nathan Ellis, one of the best T20I bowlers in the world, has been ruled out of the tournament.

The franchise shared a post on X confirming the news. The franchise confirmed that he had picked up a hamstring injury. It remains to be seen if the franchise would consider bringing in any replacements. Nathan Ellis has been officially ruled out of IPL 2026. (Image: Screengrab/X)

Earlier, while the development has not been officially announced by the franchise, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed the news to Sportstar on Thursday, March 19. The report added that Ellis has suffered a hamstring injury and will not recover in time for the IPL.

“It is a big blow for us. Ellis is a crucial bowler, especially in the death overs. We are looking at replacements,” Kasi Viswanathan said.

Ellis was expected to play a key role in CSK’s plans this season. With his ability to bowl a variety of cutters and yorkers, the Australian was set to marshal the bowling attack outside the powerplay.

Chennai will now rely on the powerplay strengths of Khaleel Ahmed and Matt Henry, along with the spin of Noor Ahmad through the middle overs. They do not have an out-and-out death-overs specialist in the squad, but the likes of Mukesh Choudhary and Jamie Overton are options they could explore in the upcoming edition.