CHENNAI: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a big blow just a week before the start of the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 as their prime bowler Nathan Ellis has been ruled out of the whole tournament due to a hamstring injury.
The franchise confirmed the exit of the Australian pacer with a social media post on Friday. "Nathan Ellis has been ruled out of the season due to a Hamstring injury. Wishing him a speedy recovery!" CSK wrote on X.
Ellis, who has taken 19 wickets from 17 IPL matches, was bought by CSK for Rs 2 crore at the 2025 mega auction after four seasons with Punjab Kings and was retained ahead of the 2026 season.
The 31-year-old, who was in great touch for Australia in the past year, was expected to play a big role for the franchise after they let go their prime bowler Matheesha Pathirana, who will now play for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the upcoming season.