NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have made a late squad change ahead of IPL 2026 after Australian pacer Nathan Ellis was ruled out due to a hamstring injury. Ellis, who was expected to lead the bowling attack, leaves behind a significant gap just before the season begins.CSK have now signed Australian fast bowler Spencer Johnson as his replacement for Rs 1.5 crore.

Johnson brings some international experience, having played limited-overs cricket for Australia, and has also featured in the IPL earlier with Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders.Ellis’s absence is a big blow for CSK, especially with the team already missing key pacer Matheesha Pathirana. He had been retained for Rs 2 crore and had a decent IPL record, picking up 19 wickets in 17 matches.

His experience was expected to be crucial for the team’s pace attack this season.Earlier, there was uncertainty around the replacement, with a franchise official saying, “Yes, he is out. We have not yet decided on the replacement,” indicating the team was still working on a solution.With Johnson now coming in, CSK will hope he can step up and fill the void left by Ellis. While he may not have the same IPL experience, his international exposure and pace-bowling ability could prove valuable as the team looks to stay competitive in the new season.