4 Players Who Can Replace Khaleel Ahmed in CSK Squad for IPL 2026

CSK is facing their worst loss in the IPL 2026 as their primary pace bowler Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out for the tournament due to an injury. The left-arm fast bowler got a quadriceps injury against Kolkata Knight Riders while bowling at MA Chidambaram Stadium.

The injury was expected to be a minor issue, but as Khaleel suddenly stopped mid-run and held his right leg in pain, things turned more serious. Post the tests, doctors diagnosed him with a long recovery period and ruled out from the tournament.

The doctors have advised a rehabilitation of around 10-12 weeks and it effectively rules out the 27-year-old from rest of the IPL 2026. This comes as a huge blow for CSK, as he was the only player so far to have played all five matches for them and was a significant component in their bowling setup.

With the tournament entering a crucial stage, CSK now need to sign an adequate replacement immediately. Here are the 4 players that can fill the hole:

4 Players CSK Can Sign to Replace Khaleel Ahmed in IPL 2026

Chetan Sakariya

In terms of replacements for Khaleel Ahmed, no one would be closest to Chetan Sakariya. The 28-year-old also bowls with his left hand and balance can be maintained for the team.

He made his debut in the IPL in the year 2021 for Rajasthan Royals and went on to play 19 games across three seasons taking 20 wickets, before being picked up by Delhi Capitals and later was also signed as an injury replacement by Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025.

Even though he was not picked in the IPL 2026 auctions he has displayed fine performance in domestic games. In the 2025 SMAT, Chetan picked up 12 wickets in 7 games. His bowling control and calmness at difficult situations makes him a valuable asset.

Akash Madhwal

Akash Madhwal would be a great acquisition for CSK; he is a right-arm medium-pacer and the ability he possesses is the ability to excel in high-pressure situations particularly during the death overs.

Madhwal has previously played for Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals, and he took 23 wickets from his 17 IPL appearances at an excellent average. He has a decent ability of hitting the yorkers on demand and can be a valuable asset for the team in close encounters.

He garnered widespread attention from many quarters after his remarkable 5 wicket haul for just 5 runs against Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator of IPL 2023. His skill set would definitely benefit the CSK in pressure moments of a game.

Simarjeet Singh

Simarjeet Singh is not a new face to the CSK team as he has been previously associated with them and has an advantage in knowing the team setup.

He has picked 9 wickets from 10 appearances so far and has recently delivered a stellar performance in Delhi Premier League 2025 by picking up 20 wickets in 11 matches with a great economy rate.

Given his previous affiliation with CSK and his recently outstanding performances, it would not be surprising if Simarjeet Singh gets to play in place of Khaleel Ahmed.

Also Read | CSK Death Bowling Crisis in IPL 2026 Explained

Rajvardhan Hangargekar

Rajvardhan Hangargekar is a young and promising all-rounder with good performance in domestic circuits, who has played for CSK previously in IPL 2023.

He was the leading wicket-taker in SMAT 2025 by picking up 11 wickets in 7 matches. He also took 10 wickets in 7 matches in MPL 2025, and apart from his bowling capabilities he can also add fire to the batting lineup down the order.

His ability as an all-rounder provides significant depth to the team which could be of great help to the CSK as they aim to rebuild their bowling unit.

With the setback of not having Khaleel Ahmed, CSK have some serious contenders for his place in the side and these above mentioned names have to be among them.