Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a setback ahead of their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) on Sunday. Pacer Deepak Chahar, a key member of the CSK bowling attack, has been ruled out of the game due to a groin injury.
Chahar sustained the injury during CSK’s match against Punjab Kings on Wednesday in Chennai. He walked off the field in pain after bowling just three balls of the Kings’ chase. The 31-year-old underwent a scan on Thursday, which confirmed the extent of the injury.
CSK CEO K.S. Viswanathan stated that the team is awaiting the full report on Chahar’s injury. He added that the pacer might travel to Ahmedabad, where he will be further assessed. However, Viswanathan emphasized that Chahar is not being ruled out of the tournament at this stage.
Coach Stephen Fleming had expressed concern about Chahar’s injury in the post-match press conference. He said that the injury was “not ideal” and that the team would have to wait for the scan results.
Chahar’s absence is a significant blow to CSK, who have already been struggling with injuries this season. The pacer has been a key performer for the team, taking 11 wickets in seven matches. He has also been economical, with an economy rate of 7.93.
CSK will now have to find a replacement for Chahar in their bowling attack. They have several options to choose from, including Chris Jordan, Matheesha Pathirana, and Mukesh Choudhary.
The match against PBKS is crucial for CSK, who are currently placed ninth in the IPL standings with four wins and five losses. A victory would help them improve their position and boost their chances of qualifying for the playoffs.
