IPL 2026: CSK set to sign former MI player as Khaleel Ahmed Replacement

Chennai Super Kings have suffered a major blow ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 campaign. Left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after sustaining a grade-2 right quadriceps tear during CSK's match against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 14 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

The 27-year-old, who had featured in all five games for the five-time champions, complained of hip discomfort five balls into his final over and left the field. Medical assessments confirmed the injury would require 10-12 weeks of rehabilitation, effectively ending his season.

Khaleel had been a steady performer with the new ball, providing early breakthroughs and maintaining control in the powerplay. His absence leaves a void in CSK's

pace attack, particularly in the opening overs, forcing the franchise to scout for a swift replacement under IPL rules.

Akash Madhwal to replace Khaleel at CSK

And as per reports, Akash Madhwal is the frontrunner to replace Khaleel Ahmed at CSK for the remainder of IPL 2026 season.

The 32-year-old right-arm seamer from Uttarakhand has quickly emerged as the frontrunner. Spotted bowling in the CSK nets in Hyderabad and even donning the team's yellow practice jersey, Madhwal is undergoing trials alongside a few other pacers. While the official signing is yet to be confirmed, multiple reports suggest he is the leading candidate to fill the vacancy.

Madhwal, who went unsold in the 2026 mega-auction, was serving as a net bowler for Mumbai Indians. His IPL credentials are impressive: 23 wickets in 17 matches at an average of 25.65 and economy of 10.06. He shot to fame in 2023 with Mumbai Indians, delivering a record-breaking 5/5 in just 3.3 overs in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants, the best bowling figures in IPL playoff history.

He had a modest outing with the Rajasthan Royals last season and was unsold in the mini auction. With CSK eyeing a playoff push, Madhwal's potential arrival could inject much-needed firepower.