IPL 2026: CSK pacer Nathan Ellis set to be ruled out with hamstring injury

Chennai Super Kings pacer Nathan Ellis is set to be ruled out of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with a hamstring injury. The 31-year-old is unlikely to recover in time, with CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirming that the franchise is on the lookout for replacement. 

Ellis' exit could lead to significant change in the team's death bowling makeup of the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led unit. 

"It is a big blow for us. Ellis is a crucial bowler, especially in the death overs. We are looking at replacements," he told The Hindu on Thursday, March 19, during an event. 

CSK relied on Sri Lanka's slingy pacer Matheesha Pathirana in the phase. However, having released him ahead of the December auction meant Ellis was earmarked to take up that role in the team. Apart from him, the team has New Zealand pacer Matt Henry and England all-rounder Jamie Overton as the overseas options to operate in the phase, given the lack of experience of Zak Foulkes.

Amongst the Indian pace options are left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed and right-arm pacer Anshul Kamboj, both of whom had an impressive season last year. CSK also have left-arm pacers Gurjapneet Singh and Mukesh Choudhary as well as Ramakrishna Ghosh, who had decent returns in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20s.

Meanwhile, Viswanathan also confirmed that the overseas players are set to join the franchise's training camp imminently, stating that the ongoing geopolitical crisis in the Middle East region has not impacted the travel plans of CSK's overseas recruits. 

Chennai Super Kings are set to commence their campaign against Rajasthan Royals at Guwahati's Barsapara Cricket Stadium on March 30.

The Men in Yellow had a poor season in 2025, finishing at the bottom of the points table for the first time in the tournament history. CSK could win only four of their 14 matches in the league.