Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) bowling has not been at its best in their first two games of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. On April 3, at their homeground MA Chidambaram Stadium, CSK failed to defend a total of 209. PBKS chased it down with five wickets in hand and eight balls to spare. As CSK’s struggles continued, India’s legendary batter, Sunil Gavaskar flagged their bowling as ‘biggest concern’ from what he has seen so far. He pointed out at the batting depth of most teams and how CSK batters need to post a total around 225-230 to have a chance of winning the contest.
"From what we’ve seen so far, CSK’s biggest concern for the rest of the tournament will be their bowling. It means they may have to consistently score around 225–230 to give their bowlers a chance," Gavaskar said on Star Sports.
"Most teams now have significant batting depth, like we saw with Punjab Kings where Marcus Stoinis came in at No. 7 and struck the ball cleanly with proper cricketing shots. With many sides batting deep, Chennai will need to get their bowling in order."
Arya’s cameo in powerplay overs
PBKS opener Priyansh Arya took the game away from CSK early on in the innings. Arya hit Khaleel Ahmed for a four and a six to begin with. The young southpaw hit Matt Henry for a four and two sixes. When Arya departed, PBKS were 55/1 after 4.2 overs. The youngster scored 39 runs from just 11 balls. PBKS lost wickets in the slog overs but it was not enough for CSK to make a comeback.
CSK’s bowling issues
After letting go of Matheesha Pathirana and roping in an unfit Spencer Johnson for an injured Nathan Ellis, CSK's fast-bowling are depleted. Trading Ravindra Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals (RR) hasn't helped them either. Henry went for 54 runs from four overs, Anshul Kamboj conceded 43 runs from 3.4 overs. Noor Ahmad has been unimpressive, remaining wicketless for 38 runs. Rahul Chahar couldn't do much either and conceded 46 runs.
Ahead of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) clash, CSK have the option to include Jamie Overton and Akeal Hosein in the side. Their other overseas bowling option is Zakary Foulkes who is yet to make his IPL debut. However, Hosein for an underperforming Hosein might be a move that helps CSK.