Sunil Gavaskar Expresses Concerns Over CSK's Bowling in IPL 2026

Sunil Gavaskar has expressed serious concerns regarding the Chennai Super Kings' bowling performance in IPL 2026. Following a disappointing match against Punjab Kings, where CSK failed to defend a strong total, Gavaskar warns that the team's bowling could hinder their chances in the tournament. He emphasizes the need for the batting unit to consistently score high to compensate for the bowling deficiencies. With CSK currently at the bottom of the standings, the pressure is on to improve as the season progresses. Read on to discover more about Gavaskar's insights and CSK's challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 4, 2026, 18:17 IST

Gavaskar's Warnings for CSK

Sunil Gavaskar, the iconic cricketer, has voiced his worries regarding the Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) chances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. He highlighted that the team's bowling lineup could pose significant challenges as the tournament unfolds. CSK's weaknesses were on full display during their match on April 3, where they faced a five-wicket loss to Punjab Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Although they managed to score a commendable 209 for 5, thanks to Ayush Mhatre's impressive 73, the Super Kings could not defend their total, revealing flaws in their bowling strategy.

Gavaskar pointed out that CSK's bowlers failed to take advantage of their batting performance, allowing Punjab Kings to chase down the target with ease, finishing with five wickets remaining and eight balls to spare. He warned that if CSK does not rectify their bowling issues, such disappointing performances could become a pattern. He emphasized that the batting unit might need to consistently score around 225–230 runs to give the bowlers a fighting chance.

“From what we’ve seen so far, CSK’s biggest concern for the rest of the tournament will be their bowling. It means they may have to consistently score around 225–230 to give their bowlers a chance,” Gavaskar stated during his appearance on Star Sports’ 'Amul Cricket Live'.

Gavaskar also noted a significant trend in the league, pointing out the increasing batting depth across various teams. He remarked that this development makes it essential for teams to have a robust and disciplined bowling attack. “Most teams now have significant batting depth, like we saw with Punjab Kings where Marcus Stoinis came in at No. 7 and struck the ball cleanly with proper cricketing shots. With many sides batting deep, Chennai will need to get their bowling in order,” he added.

CSK's current difficulties follow a disappointing previous season, where they finished last for the first time in their history. The current campaign has not started any better, as they suffered an eight-wicket defeat to Rajasthan Royals, who chased down a modest target of 128 with 47 balls to spare. With consecutive losses, including the recent defeat to Punjab Kings, CSK finds itself at the bottom of the standings, with a net run rate of -2.562, the worst among all ten teams, highlighting the challenges they face early in the season.