A hamstring issue will keep Chennai Super Kings’ Nathan Ellis off the field for IPL 2026. The news comes straight from CEO Kasi Vishwanathan, who mentioned the team is now looking at potential substitutes. Though quiet on names, he stressed how tough it is replacing someone who bowls crucial late spells. With Pathirana gone to Kolkata Knight Riders, finding a reliable finisher has become harder than expected. Missing Ellis leaves a gap not easily filled, especially when pressure builds in closing overs.
So here’s a look at three players who might take Ellis’s spot for CSK next season
- Ottoneil Baartman
Ottoneil Baartman, a fast bowler from South Africa, stands out as the top pick. Despite going unsold in the IPL, he later joined Hyderabad Kingsmen in the PSL. Yet by 2025, Corbin Bosch made moves that shifted things – then Blessing Muzarabani followed suit in 2026 – opening space for Baartman to rethink his deal. A switch to Chennai could mean bigger pay, something hard to ignore. With ties already built through CSK’s linked team, the Texas Super Kings, talks might flow easier than expected
.2. Sean Abbott
Maybe Sean Abbott fits what CSK might look for now. Scoring 11 wickets across ten games, he held runs tight – just 7.26 per over – in the latest Big Bash season. Hailing from down under often helps when Chennai picks fast bowlers. That background, combined with steady outings for New South Wales lately, keeps him visible. Form hasn’t slipped – he’s been active, turning up game after game.
- Gerald Coetzee
A young fast bowler from South Africa, Gerald Coetzee, might just fit the gap. Though overlooked during the IPL bidding, mainly because past injuries have interrupted his run. Just three games last season in the SA20, then missing the entire T20 World Cup later that year. Lately though, back on the field facing New Zealand, showing signs of rhythm – three dismissals across two outings. While nothing’s certain, steady performances like those may catch Chennai’s attention quietly
