Dhoni’s 4 year old favorite can replace Khalil, has created a stir in 2022
Last Updated:
CSK has two left-arm seamers in the current team. One is Gurjanpreet Singh and the other is Mukesh Chaudhary. Looking at Chennai’s strategy, Mukesh Chaudhary seems to have the upper hand because Dhoni and Fleming always give priority to experience and old reliable players.
Mukesh Chaudhary may get a chance in Chennai team in place of Khalil Ahmed
New Delhi. A big problem has arisen for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during IPL 2026. The team’s main left arm fast bowler Khalil Ahmed has been ruled out of the entire season due to a thigh injury. This injury suffered during the match against KKR is so serious that it may take 10-12 weeks for him to recover. Now the question is, who will replace Khalil in the playing eleven? The team currently has two main options
CSK has two left-arm seamers in the current team. One is Gurjanpreet Singh and the other is Mukesh Chaudhary. Looking at Chennai’s strategy, Mukesh Chaudhary seems to have the upper hand because Dhoni and Fleming always give priority to experience and old reliable players.
Mukesh Chaudhary: The strongest contender
Mukesh Chaudhary is considered to be the most perfect ‘like-for-like’ replacement of Khalil Ahmed. This left-handed fast bowler has seven experiences and records. Mukesh impressed everyone with his swing bowling in IPL 2022, where he took 16 wickets in 13 matches. In the last three seasons (2023-2025), he has been able to play only 3 matches due to injuries. Mukesh’s claim is also strong because he has already proved his ability to take wickets in the powerplay for Chennai. The team already lacks a left-arm seamer, so Mukesh’s experience gives him an edge over Gurjapaneet.
Gurjapaneet Singh: Recent Performances
Gurjapaneet completed his spell in the last match after Khalil got injured. In his debut match, he made his debut against Delhi Capitals on 11th April this season and created history by taking a wicket on the very first ball. Although he started well, he has not looked that effective in the last two matches. His economy rate has been around 12.00, which can be a matter of concern for a team like Chennai.
Other possible options
Chennai team can also bet on some new faces or unsold players. Ramakrishna Ghosh: This fast bowler from Maharashtra can bowl at a speed of 140+ and can also contribute in batting. The names of these players like Vijay Shankar and Chetan Sakariya are also in discussion on the basis of their experience in IPL, although Sakariya is not a part of the team at present. Overall, the condition of Chennai is not good and they want to add a bowler to the team who can prove to be a Brahmastra in getting the team out of trouble.
