Chennai Super Kings have suffered a major setback as left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 due to a right quadricep injury. The franchise confirmed that the injury will require more than 12 weeks to heal, effectively ending his season.
Khaleel picked up the injury during CSK’s recent match against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 14 in Chennai. He had to leave the field just five balls into his final over, with young pacer Gurjapneet Singh stepping in to complete it. With Khaleel now sidelined, Gurjapneet could see increased responsibility in the bowling attack.
CSK’s problems don’t end there. The team is already dealing with the absence of key players like MS Dhoni, who is recovering from a calf injury. Although Dhoni has resumed light training and is facing throwdowns, he is yet to return to full intensity. Overseas pacer Nathan Ellis has also been ruled out for the entire season, while his replacement Spencer Johnson is still recovering and has not joined the squad.
To fill the gap, CSK may turn to domestic options like Mukesh Choudhary or Ramakrishna Ghosh. Choudhary offers a similar left-arm option, while Ghosh brings all-round ability. Ghosh impressed in the 2025–26 domestic season, including a remarkable 7/42 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and a quick unbeaten 64.
With just two wins in five matches, CSK will look to regroup before facing Sunrisers Hyderabad in their next game.
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