IPL 2026: Why are CSK not using Prashant Veer as bowler despite spending 14.20 crores on him?
(Courtesy : BCCI/IPL)
Prashant Veer was bought by CSK for a whopping 14.20 Cr in the IPL 2026 auction.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) entered the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction with the second highest purse. They used more than half of their budget to purchase two young uncapped Indian players in Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer.
Naturally, the spotlight has been on both players in the first three matches. Unfortunately for CSK, they haven’t lived upto their price tag so far. Kartik Sharma has been part of CSK’s playing XI for all three matches, yet has produced underwhelming returns so far.
Prashant Veer did not play the opener against Rajasthan Royals (RR), but did not look too impressive in his debut match against Punjab Kings (PBKS) with the bat either. Pressure continues to build on the five-time champions, who have now slumped to their third straight defeat of the season.
With their key players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson still searching for form, and injuries preventing them from playing their best team early in the tournament, CSK currently find themselves surrounded by more questions than answers.
Why are CSK not using Prashant Veer as bowler in IPL 2026?
Despite CSK’s thin bowling lineup this season, captain Gaikwad and the CSK management have been reluctant to so far bowl Prashant Veer in the two games he has played. Head coach Stephen Fleming or anyone from the CSK management is yet to comment on why Veer is not bowling.
However, it could be suspected that Veer’s shoulder injury is forcing him to now bowl so far this season. He had suffered a serious shoulder injury (a Grade 2 shoulder tear), while fielding in a Ranji Trophy match for Uttar Pradesh, in late January.
Veer if capable of bowling, will be key for CSK to balance their team. However, it remains to be seen if he retains his spot in the team once Dewald Brevis and MS Dhoni return.
Why is Prashant Veer not bowling for CSK in IPL 2026?
He is likely still recovering from a shoulder injury, which may be preventing him from contributing with the ball.
How much did Chennai Super Kings pay for Prashant Veer?
CSK bought him for ₹14.20 crore in the IPL 2026 auction.
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Aniruddh Seshadri Iyer is a passionate sports journalist at Khel Now, specializing in tennis and Olympic sports. An engineer by training, he found his storytelling passion through iconic Grand Slam and Olympic moments. Known for sharp analysis and insightful coverage, he draws inspiration from Novak Djokovic’s resilience. Outside journalism, he enjoys reading, traveling, and playing the guitar.