5 bowlers CSK can sign as replacement for Nathan Ellis ahead of IPL 2026

Chennai Super Kings have suffered a major setback ahead of IPL 2026, with Australian fast bowler Nathan Ellis ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.

The 31-year-old was last seen in action for Tasmania during the One-Day Cup final in Hobart, where he returned figures of 2/26 from five overs in a losing effort against New South Wales. While the exact moment of the injury is unclear, Ellis had already been managing a hamstring issue, which had earlier forced him to miss the knockout stage of the Big Bash League, where he captained the Hobart Hurricanes.

Over time, Ellis has built a strong reputation as a dependable death-over specialist. His ability to vary pace and use slower balls and cutters effectively makes him a valuable asset in the T20 format. The Aussie pacer also played a key role for CSK last season as their primary death bowler. Following the release of Matheesha Pathirana before the auction, Ellis was expected to lead the pace attack in the crucial final overs once again.

His bowling style is well-suited to the conditions at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, making his absence a significant blow for the five-time champions. In response, CSK will now need to reassess their options. Within the current squad, Jamie Overton and Gurjapneet Singh present internal solutions. However, the franchise may also explore the option of signing a replacement player from the auction pool.

According to CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan, the team management is actively working to identify a suitable replacement ahead of the new season.

With that in mind, here is a look at five overseas fast bowlers CSK could consider as potential replacements for Ellis.

Also read -Chennai Super Kings suffer major blow as key pacer ruled out of IPL 2026

1. Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)

Gerald Coetzee is a fast bowler from South Africa who has played in the IPL for the Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians in the last two seasons. He has also been part of the Johannesburg Super Kings in the SA20 league. However, he was not selected by South Africa for the 2026 T20 World Cup. He has taken 15 wickets in 14 matches and can also bat in the lower order when needed.

Although his form has not been consistent, Coetzee has useful skills. He bowls with pace and hits the pitch hard, which can work well at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium. His presence can also bring balance to the Chennai Super Kings bowling attack, which mainly depends on new-ball bowlers. In addition, he can score some runs lower down the order. Coetzee has already played for two Super Kings teams, including Johannesburg and Texas, so the team management is likely to know him well.

In his first IPL season in 2024, he took 13 wickets in 10 matches for Mumbai Indians. Later, he was picked by Gujarat Titans in the 2025 mega auction, where he played four matches and took four wickets.

2. Fazalhaq Farooqi (Afghanistan)

Fazalhaq Farooqi, the Afghanistan pacer, brings prior IPL experience, having represented the Rajasthan Royals. He has also been a regular member of the Afghanistan side in T20 cricket.

The left-arm seamer has taken 6 wickets in 12 IPL matches so far. However, his economy rate of 10.32 remains an area of concern. In international T20s, the Afghan pacer has been more effective, picking up 66 wickets in 54 matches.

Despite some inconsistency, he offers useful variety with his left-arm pace. This could add balance to the Chennai Super Kings bowling unit. In addition, he has the ability to bowl in the death overs, making him a practical option for the team.

3. Ottniel Baartman (South Africa)

Ottniel Baartman, the South African pacer, is seen as one of the closest replacements for Nathan Ellis. He is known for his strong death bowling and control in the final overs.

The Proteas quick has received high praise from Keshav Maharaj, who called him one of the best death bowlers he has seen. Baartman is known for his accuracy and calm execution at the end of an innings.

He was the top wicket-taker in the 2026 SA20, picking up 20 wickets in nine matches for the Paarl Royals. The South African pacer also played an important role in Sunrisers Eastern Cape winning back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024. In addition, he was part of South Africa’s run to the T20 World Cup final in 2024.

Baartman went unsold in the IPL 2026 auction, which makes him available as a replacement option. He has also played for the Texas Super Kings, so he is familiar with the team environment.

With his experience and skillset, he could be a good fit for the Chennai Super Kings. His inclusion can add balance to the bowling attack, especially in the death overs.

4. Shamar Joseph (West Indies)

Shamar Joseph, the West Indies pacer, could be a strong option if the Chennai Super Kings are looking for an express fast bowler to replace Nathan Ellis.

The young quick was part of the West Indies squad in the 2026 T20 World Cup and has taken 26 wickets in 22 T20I matches so far. Known for his pace and aggression, the Caribbean pacer can trouble batters, especially on lively surfaces.

Joseph also has experience in the IPL. He made his debut for Lucknow Super Giants in 2024 and was retained by the franchise during the 2025 mega auction. This shows that he is valued for his potential and skill.

While he is not a like-for-like death specialist, his raw pace can add a different dimension to the CSK bowling attack. If used well, he can provide breakthroughs and support the pace unit with his attacking style.

5. Sean Abbott (Australia)

Sean Abbott, the Australian pacer, is a strong option for Chennai Super Kings, as he fits their preference for experienced fast bowlers.

Abbott has been a consistent performer in T20 cricket. He is the leading wicket-taker in the Big Bash League, with over 180 wickets. His record shows his ability to perform well, especially in pressure situations.

The Australian quick is known for his accuracy and control, particularly in the death overs. This makes him a suitable replacement for Nathan Ellis. He has taken more than 250 wickets in T20 cricket at an economy rate of around 8.62.

Abbott is also a regular part of the Australian T20 setup and was included as a travelling reserve for the 2026 T20 World Cup. In international T20s, he has taken 34 wickets in 29 matches.

In addition to his bowling, he can contribute with the bat in the lower order. He is capable of scoring important runs in the final overs, which adds depth to the team.

His all-round ability allows CSK to strengthen both their bowling and batting. Abbott last played in the IPL in 2022 for Sunrisers Hyderabad, and his experience makes him a reliable and balanced option.