IPL 2026: ‘He is the biggest problem’ – Irfan Pathan tears into CSK bowler after RCB loss | CricTracker

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has opined that Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad‘s form is the biggest problem that the Chennai Super Kings have to deal with in 2026. He remarks came after their 43-run loss against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

After being the bright spot for Chennai in 2025, Noor has stated this season in poor form, giving away 111 runs in three games for no wickets. He gave 49 runs in his spell against RCB, being taken down 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, speaking on his YouTube channel.

Pathan expressed his disappointment in Matt Henry‘s performance, stating that a bowler with his experience should be bowling better. Henry bowled three overs, going wicketless and conceding 36 runs against RCB, and has looked non-threatening throughout the season.

“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.

Pathan further stated that CSK got their plans wrong while bowling to Tim David. David, who top-scored with an unbeaten 70 off just 25 balls, was key in RCB’s ascent to 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.

Chennai Super Kings have lost their opening three games in the IPL and will be looking to get back to winning ways soon. They host the in-form Delhi Capitals on April 11 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium.

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