Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a significant setback ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with their ₹14.2 crore recruit, Prashant Veer, facing an injury. The uncapped all-rounder sustained a shoulder injury while playing for Uttar Pradesh in a Ranji Trophy match against Jharkhand.
The incident occurred on the first day of the match when Veer dived to stop a shot from Jharkhand batter Shikhar Mohan, landing awkwardly on his right shoulder. He was immediately attended to by the team's physio and subsequently taken to the hospital for scans. He returned to the stadium with a sling on his arm, making it unlikely for him to participate further in the game. Shivam Sharma, a left-arm spinner, was named as Veer's replacement in the match.
Initial assessments suggest that Veer has suffered a grade-2 tear and is expected to be out of action for at least three weeks. This timeline puts his availability for the initial phase of the IPL 2026 season in doubt.
Prashant Veer was acquired by CSK for a hefty sum at the IPL 2026 mini-auction. The 20-year-old became the joint highest-paid uncapped player in IPL history, alongside Kartik Sharma. CSK's investment in Veer signaled a shift in their strategy, as they moved away from their traditional preference for experienced players. Veer has made a name for himself in domestic cricket, scoring 112 runs at a strike rate of 167.16 and taking 12 wickets at an average of 16.66 in T20 matches.
The injury to Veer is a cause of concern for CSK, especially after the trade of Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals. Veer was seen as a key part of CSK's plans for the upcoming season.
In November 2025, CSK released 11 players ahead of the auction for the 2026 season. The team traded in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals in exchange for Jadeja and Curran. MS Dhoni will continue to lead the team, with Stephen Fleming as the coach.
With the IPL 2026 season set to begin in less than two months, the five-time champions will be hoping for Veer's speedy recovery. The team may have to consider alternative strategies in Veer's absence.
There is also speculation that Chennai may not be able to host all their home matches at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium due to the elections in Tamil Nadu. Ranchi and Thiruvananthapuram are being considered as alternative venues.
