Irfan Pathan Points to Noor Ahmad's Struggles as Critical Weakness for Chennai Super Kings
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has pinpointed left-arm spinner Noor Ahmad's alarming dip in form as the most significant problem plaguing Chennai Super Kings following their substantial 43-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the ongoing IPL 2026 season. Pathan's analysis comes as CSK grapples with a disappointing start to their campaign.
Noor Ahmad's Wicketless Streak Raises Serious Questions
Noor Ahmad, who emerged as one of CSK's most reliable performers during the previous IPL season, has failed to replicate that success this year. The young spinner has remained wicketless across three consecutive matches, conceding more than 100 runs in approximately 10 overs of bowling. His performance reached a particularly low point against RCB, where batsmen Rajat Patidar and Tim David aggressively targeted his bowling, leading to an expensive outing that significantly impacted the match's outcome.
"He (Noor) is CSK's biggest problem right now," Pathan stated emphatically. "He has bowled around 10 overs this season and conceded over 100 runs. He does not have a single wicket. I believe that if he corrects the angle of his run-up, the alignment will improve, and his hand, which has been falling on one side, will become straighter as well."
Pathan Expresses Disappointment with Matt Henry's Performance
Beyond Noor Ahmad's struggles, Pathan also voiced considerable disappointment with experienced New Zealand pacer Matt Henry, who has similarly failed to meet expectations. Henry conceded 36 runs in his three overs against RCB without claiming a single wicket, continuing a pattern of ineffectiveness that has characterized his tournament so far.
"I am very disappointed with his bowling because he brings in a lot of experience," Pathan remarked. "He has had performances and a good economy, but hasn't been able to perform like that in this league. An experienced bowler does not bowl a half volley. Anshul Kamboj dismissed Virat Kohli with a bouncer after seeing him step out. Matt Henry bowled a full delivery even after seeing Virat step out."
Tactical Errors in Handling Tim David Proved Costly
Pathan further criticized CSK's strategic approach to containing RCB's destructive batsman Tim David, whose unbeaten 70 runs from just 25 deliveries propelled RCB to a formidable total of 250/3. According to Pathan, CSK's bowlers made fundamental errors in their line and length when bowling to David.
"Tim David usually stands outside the leg stump. So, bowling at the off stump is giving him width," Pathan explained. "If the bowler is thinking that he won't give room by bowling at the off stump, he is actually giving him room. You have to bowl at the middle stump and leg stump; otherwise, he is going to hit you. You can block him initially, which Chennai did not do, and he took full advantage of that."
CSK Faces Uphill Battle After Third Consecutive Loss
Chennai Super Kings' defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru marks their third consecutive loss at the beginning of the IPL 2026 season, placing them under significant pressure. The team will be desperately seeking to reverse this troubling trend when they face Delhi Capitals in their upcoming match at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 11.
Pathan's comprehensive critique highlights not only individual player form issues but also broader tactical shortcomings that have contributed to CSK's early-season struggles. As the tournament progresses, addressing these concerns will be crucial for the franchise to regain its competitive edge and climb the points table.
