Akash Madhwal spotted in CSK nets as injury-hit bowling unit under review
Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of Indian Premier League 2026 after picking up an injury mid-over in their last game, forcing him off the field. The left-arm seamer’s exit has added to a growing list of problems for Chennai Super Kings, who had already lost Nathan Ellis earlier in the season.
Team CEO confirmed to Cricbuzz that a few bowlers are being tested before a final call is made on replacements. Spencer Johnson has already been signed for Nathan Ellis but is yet to join the squad, leaving a gap in the pace attack for now.
Among those spotted in nets was Akash Madhwal. The right-arm seamer has been looked at as a potential option, especially for the death overs where CSK have struggled. He is known for tight yorkers and has played 17 IPL matches so far, taking 23 wickets.
Death overs focus puts Madhwal in frame
Madhwal’s standout moment remains his 5 for 5 against Lucknow Super Giants in the 2023 Eliminator, the best bowling figures in an IPL playoff match and also the best by an uncapped player in the league’s history. That spell put him firmly on the radar for teams needing control at the end of innings.
With multiple bowlers still under trial, the door is not closed on other options, but Madhwal is understood to be a strong contender given his experience in pressure overs. Chennai Super Kings face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Hyderabad on 18 April, and a replacement decision is expected soon.