The Chennai Super Kings have endured a tough start to IPL 2026. The team have lost three matches on the trot and the last defeat came against Royal Challengers Bengaluru by 43 runs. Following the loss, the former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan revealed a number of problems within the side, primarily focusing on the bowling.

The primary reason is Noor Ahmad. While the left-arm spinner was crucial for the CSK last season, he has failed to impress this season. In three matches, the bowler has not managed to pick up a single wicket and has leaked runs exceeding 100 in approximately 10 overs. The match against RCB saw him hammered by Rajat Patidar and Tim David for many a big shot.

Pathan identified a technical flaw as the problem with Noor. The former India all-rounder pointed out that the left-arm spinner’s run up angle is not correct and it causes his arm to not come straight when bowling the ball. He stated that with just a minor change, Noor will have a much better outing.

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Pathan also expressed his disappointment over Matt Henry. The experienced New Zealand fast bowler was signed on for a hefty price, however he has failed to repay the team's faith thus far. Against RCB, he conceded 36 runs in just 3 overs and was wicketless. Pathan clearly suggested that seasoned international players should not commit basic errors.

He referred to the match situation when Virat Kohli step out of the crease and Henry decided to ball a full delivery. It went for a boundary and was a rather loose delivery to have on and given Kohli is one of the best batsmen in the format. Anshul Kamboj in contrast, bowled a bouncer and got Kohli out.

A another issue was the way CSK bowlers approached Tim David. The RCB batter went on to hit an amazing 70* of just 25 deliveries as he led his side to a mammoth 250/3. Pathan asserted that bowlers were bowling on either side and in too much width to Tim David. Since the batsman stand outside the leg stump, bowling wide outside off will only result in more freedom for the batsman and instead it should have been either towards the middle or leg stump.

The Chennai Super Kings will have to quickly rectify their mistakes and will look for their first win of the season when they lock horns against the Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 11.