Noor Ahmad Shines as CSK Defeats KKR in IPL 2026 Showdown
Noor Ahmad's Impactful Performance
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India] - April 15: Mitchell McClenaghan has praised Chennai Super Kings (CSK) spinner Noor Ahmad for his outstanding bowling performance that led to a 32-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2026.
During a discussion on Star Sports, McClenaghan emphasized Noor's aggressive approach and his knack for dismantling partnerships once he finds his rhythm. He noted that the young spinner consistently aims to inflict more damage after claiming a wicket.
“What I admire most about Noor Ahmad is his ability to follow up a wicket with another. He never settles for just one; he always strives to improve and puts pressure on the opposing batsmen,” McClenaghan remarked.
He also highlighted Noor's dismissal of Cameron Green, calling it a 'class' delivery that showcased his skill and precision. “He bowled an unplayable leg-spin delivery to Cameron Green from around the wicket. The way it crashed into the stumps demonstrated Noor Ahmad's class. It was a remarkable delivery,” he added.
McClenaghan pointed out how Noor effectively contained Rinku Singh by denying him any width, which forced an error under pressure. “Against Rinku Singh, Noor restricted his room and width, preventing him from playing freely. This frustration led Rinku to play a reckless shot and get out. Once Noor Ahmad gains the upper hand, he tends to dominate the game, as he did against KKR,” McClenaghan explained.
CSK, batting first, scored 192 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in their 20 overs, with notable contributions from Sanju Samson (48) and Dewald Brevis (41), while Kartik Tyagi stood out with the ball, taking 2 wickets for 35 runs.
In response, KKR struggled early, finding themselves at 29 for 2. A brief partnership of 50 runs between captain Ajinkya Rahane (28) and Angkrish Raghuvanshi (27) gave them hope. However, Noor's pivotal spell reduced KKR to 90 for 6, and they ultimately finished their innings at 160 for 7.
Noor Ahmad claimed the wickets of Rahane, Cameron Green, and Rinku Singh, concluding his spell with impressive figures of 3 wickets for 21 runs, earning him the Player of the Match award. This victory marked CSK's second consecutive win of the season after starting with three losses.