Kamal Ghorui
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has raised concerns over Noor Ahmad’s form, calling it the biggest issue for Chennai Super Kings following their 43-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026.Noor, who was one of CSK’s standout performers last season, has struggled to make an impact this year. The left-arm spinner has gone wicketless across three matches, conceding over 100 runs in roughly 10 overs, including an expensive outing against RCB where he was taken apart by Rajat Patidar and Tim David.“He (Noor) is CSK’s biggest problem right now. 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 said.Pathan also voiced his disappointment with Matt Henry, stating that the experienced pacer has not lived up to expectations so far. Henry conceded 36 runs in three overs against RCB without picking up a wicket and has looked ineffective throughout the campaign.“I am very disappointed with his bowling because he brings in a lot of experience. 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,” he added.The former all-rounder further pointed out tactical errors in CSK’s approach to Tim David, whose unbeaten 70 off 25 balls powered RCB to a daunting total of 250/3.“Tim David usually stands outside the leg stump. So, bowling at the off stump is giving him width. 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,” he remarked.CSK’s struggles have now extended to three consecutive defeats at the start of the season. They will be aiming to bounce back when they take on Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 11.
