• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

IPL 2026: In a big blow to the Chennai Super Kings, pacer Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a serious quadriceps injury. Khaleel Ahmed, who featured in all five matches for CSK so far, experienced discomfort in his right hip during the match against KKR on April 14.

Despite picking up just two wickets in five games, the left-arm seamer has been among CSK's most economical bowlers this season, boasting the second-best economy rate (8.67) in the squad. His performance against KKR was arguably his best of the season so far.

IPL 2026: Khaleel Ahmed Likely To Miss Full Season

According to a report by PTI, citing IPL sources, Khaleel Ahmed's injury is a Grade 2 strain and could require at least 10–12 weeks of recovery time. "It is a grade 2 tear and the rehab will take at least 10-12 weeks," the source said as quoted by PTI.

ALSO READ: RCB vs LSG IPL 2026: Krunal Pandya Achieves Rare IPL Double, Enters Exclusive All-Rounders Club

The left-arm pacer has represented India in 11 ODIs and 18 T20Is, with his last appearance for the national team coming in July 2024.

IPL 2026: Who could replace Khaleel Ahmed?

With Khaleel ruled out of IPL 2026, CSK have two in-squad options: Mukesh Choudhary and Ramakrishna Ghosh. Ghosh, a right-arm pacer who can also contribute with the bat, appears to be the frontrunner for a replacement role.

During the 2025–26 domestic season, Ghosh emerged as one of Maharashtra's most promising players. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he delivered a standout performance by taking 7 wickets for 42 runs against Himachal Pradesh in Jaipur, the best bowling figures for the team in a List A innings. In the same tournament, he also smashed an unbeaten 64 off just 27 balls against Mumbai.

ALSO READ: Big Blow For MI! Rohit Sharma Likely Out Of Next Two IPL 2026 Games: Report

IPL 2026: When will MS Dhoni return to the team?

As per a report by The Indian Express, former CSK captain MS Dhoni could make his return on April 23 against the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. The 44-year-old has been sidelined since suffering a calf strain during the pre-season camp, but is now close to full fitness.


Also In News