Chennai Super Kings pacer Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a quadriceps injury, dealing a blow to the franchise’s bowling attack. The left-arm seamer, who featured in all five matches for CSK this season, reported discomfort in his right hip during their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 14. “It is a grade 2 tear and the rehab will take at least 10-12 weeks,” said an IPL source.Khaleel had been one of CSK’s more reliable performers in the early phase of IPL 2026. He picked up 2 wickets in 5 matches, with best figures of 1/24 and maintained an economy rate of 8.67, often operating with the new ball.Khaleel Ahmed has had a decade-long IPL journey, evolving from a raw Under-19 prospect into a seasoned left-arm pace specialist. Over 76 matches, he has taken 91 wickets at an average of 27.19, representing three major franchises – Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings. In 2023, he became the fastest Indian bowler to reach 50 IPL wickets and inn 2024, he was one of the most effective bowlers in the first six overs, taking 8 wickets at an economy of 8.87. Despite modest wicket returns, his role in providing early breakthroughs and control in the powerplay made him a key part of CSK’s bowling plans. The 27-year-old has represented India in 11 ODIs and 18 T20Is, with his last international appearance coming in July 2024.
