The Chennai Super Kings are facing a challenging start to the IPL 2026 season, suffering three losses that have revealed significant issues within the team, a five-time champion. The struggles have been attributed to the lack of experience in the bowling lineup and the disappointing performances of key batsmen. Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has pointed to the underperformance of a high-profile acquisition as a central factor in CSK’s difficulties.
Pathan noted that the inconsistent play of wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad has significantly weakened CSK’s spin attack, a fact that was evident during the team’s recent 43-run defeat to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The 21-year-old spinner was notably ineffective, ending with figures of 0/49 in four overs while RCB amassed a record 250 runs, their highest total against CSK in 18 years. Ahmad has yet to take a wicket after three matches, exacerbating CSK’s bowling challenges.
In addition to the loss against RCB, CSK’s season began poorly in Guwahati, where they were dismissed for just 127 runs by the Rajasthan Royals. Following that, they failed to defend a strong total of 209 runs against the Punjab Kings in Chennai last week.
“Noor is currently CSK’s biggest issue. He has bowled about 10 overs this season and has given away over 100 runs without claiming a single wicket. I believe that if he adjusts his run-up angle, it will enhance his alignment, and his bowling hand, which has been inconsistent, will become straighter,” Pathan commented on his YouTube channel.
Pathan also expressed disappointment with New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry, who has yet to make a significant impact this season, managing to take only two wickets for 130 runs across three matches. “I am quite let down by his bowling. He brings a wealth of experience but hasn’t been able to deliver in this league. An experienced bowler should avoid full tosses. Anshul Kamboj dismissed Virat Kohli with a bouncer after reading his intent, while Matt Henry bowled a full delivery despite noticing Virat stepping out,” he added.
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