Star CSK pacer Nathan Ellis ruled out of IPL 2026 due to hamstring injury

Chennai Super Kings have been dealt a setback ahead of IPL 2026, with Nathan Ellis sidelined for the season due to a hamstring injury sustained during training. The Australian pacer is unlikely to regain fitness in time, as confirmed by CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan. His absence leaves a gap in the bowling unit, especially in the crucial death overs where he was expected to play a key role.

Ellis had been viewed as a potential solution for closing out innings, particularly following the departure of Matheesha Pathirana, who has since joined Kolkata Knight Riders in a high-value move worth INR 18 crore.

With Ellis sidelined, Matt Henry is expected



to step into the playing XI for Chennai Super Kings. The New Zealand pacer has been solid in T20Is, with 53 wickets in 43 matches at an economy rate of 8.50. However, his IPL record has been underwhelming, having last played in 2024 for Lucknow Super Giants, where he managed just one wicket in four games at an economy rate of 9.16.

Henry is known for his ability with the new ball but has struggled with death-bowling, an area where CSK needs a reliable option. As a result, Ruturaj Gaikwad’s side may consider bringing in England's Jamie Overton. While Overton is a competent choice, he’s nowhere near the impact player that Pathirana has been for CSK in previous seasons.