CSK's Rs 14.2 Crore All-Rounder Prashant Veer Yet to Bowl a Single Over in IPL 2026

Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2026 campaign has begun on a worrying note. The five-time champions have lost their first three matches, leaving them rooted at the bottom of the points table. Once regarded as one of the most feared sides in the league, CSK now appear vulnerable, with inconsistent batting, fragile bowling, and questionable leadership decisions raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has come under intense scrutiny for his leadership and tactical choices. In the absence of veteran MS Dhoni, the team has struggled to find balance, and the inclusion of Sanju Samson has yet to make a significant impact. Critics point to Gaikwad’s on-field decision-making as a factor behind CSK’s early struggles, especially in key moments where tactical aggression could have turned the tide.

One of the most discussed aspects of CSK’s strategy has been the handling of all-rounder Prashant Veer. The 20-year-old left-arm spinner from Uttar Pradesh was acquired by CSK for a staggering Rs 14.2 crore, largely seen as a like-for-like replacement for veteran Ravindra Jadeja, who was traded to Rajasthan Royals. Expectations were high that Veer would contribute both with the bat and ball, adding balance to the squad.

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However, Veer has been noticeably underutilised. Despite being named in the Playing XI for the second game against Punjab Kings, he did not bowl a single over, even as the opposition chased down 210 runs with relative ease. The trend continued against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where CSK’s bowling was torn apart by Tim David, Rajat Patidar, and Virat Kohli, yet Veer remained unused. Analysts are puzzled why a high-value all-rounder is not being employed in situations that clearly demanded extra bowling options.

The situation draws uncomfortable parallels with Kolkata Knight Riders’ handling of Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, signed for Rs 25.2 crore. Green has yet to bowl this season, though in his case, KKR cited Cricket Australia’s clearance and a lower-back injury as reasons. In contrast, CSK have no such restrictions or injury concerns regarding Veer, making the decision to withhold his bowling all the more perplexing.

Experts suggest that such underutilisation could reflect a lack of confidence in young players or an overly conservative approach by the captain. While Veer’s bowling may carry risk, ignoring an all-rounder of his calibre—especially one bought for a record fee—limits CSK’s tactical flexibility and places undue pressure on frontline bowlers. Fans and analysts alike are calling for a reassessment of strategy before the team sinks further in the standings.

Despite the rough start, it is still early in the tournament. CSK have a chance to reflect on their mistakes, recalibrate their strategy, and give Veer the all-round role he was acquired for. A turnaround is possible, but it will require decisive leadership, better utilisation of resources, and improved execution on the field if the five-time champions hope to reclaim their place among IPL’s elite sides.

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