Former India opener Aakash Chopra has raised serious concerns over Chennai Super Kings’ death bowling options ahead of IPL 2026, following the injury setback to Nathan Ellis. The Australian pacer has been ruled out of the entire season due to a hamstring injury, leaving a significant gap in CSK’s bowling plans. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed the development earlier this week, acknowledging Ellis’ importance, particularly in the death overs — a phase that often determines the outcome of T20 matches.
His absence now puts added pressure on the rest of the bowling unit. Aakash Chopra pointed out that CSK’s situation has become even more complicated after they released Matheesha Pathirana ahead of the IPL 2026 mini auction. Pathirana had previously handled the death overs, but concerns over his fitness and dip in form led to his release.
“If Nathan Ellis has been ruled out, then who will bowl at the death?” Aakash Chopra questioned in a video. He further explained that while Pathirana’s exit may have been justified, the plan to rely on Ellis has now backfired.
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“However, when they released Pathirana, the focus shifted to Nathan Ellis being their death bowler. But if Ellis is also not there, then who will bowl the death overs?” Aakash Chopra added, highlighting the growing uncertainty.
Despite having several seam-bowling options, Chopra believes CSK lack a proven specialist for high-pressure overs. The squad includes names like Matt Henry, Jamie Overton, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, Anshul Kamboj and Gurjapneet Singh, but none are established finish-over specialists.
“Death bowling is now a big concern and Ellis’ absence is a serious blow,” Aakash Chopra concluded.
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Under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 in Guwahati. With key bowling gaps to address, the five-time champions face an early tactical challenge.
