Will Spencer Johnson play today for CSK vs GT in IPL 2026?

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CSK signed Australian left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson as an injury replacement for Nathan Ellis.
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are slowly coming back into form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. They have made a strong comeback after losing their first three matches and are currently at the fifth position in the points table, with three wins in seven games.
However, injuries have hit the camp more than anything, with the likes of Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed, and Ayush Mhatre already ruled out of the tournament, and MS Dhoni yet to feature in a single game so far. There are still concerns in the camp regarding the ideal playing combination, but the last few wins have boosted the team’s confidence.
Spencer Johnson has joined the squad as a replacement for Nathan Ellis and will be available for selection. The left-arm pacer from Australia is known for his smart bowling in the powerplay and can take on a similar role to Khaleel Ahmed.
He was expected to play against Mumbai Indians as CSK bowling coach Eric Simmons confirmed that Australia pacer will make his debut, but due to some unknown reasons, he didn’t play.
“Khaleel Ahmed & Anshul Kamboj have been really good for us. Spencer Johnson (Khaleel’s replacement) will be in our starting XI tomorrow night,” Simmons had said.
Will Spencer Johnson play in CSK vs GT game of IPL 2026?

There are chances that CSK may prefer an experienced overseas left-arm pacer in CSK vs GT clash, but Mukesh Choudhary also performed well in their last outing against the MI at the Wankhede. The CSK are already playing with two overseas bowlers, Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmad, and both of them look in very good form, delivering wins for the team.
So, the inclusion of Johnson straight away against GT may not happen, as the CSK team would not want to change their winning combination.
However, if any player goes out of form and there is a need for Johnson in the main playing XI, they might consider him soon. With the quality that Johnson brings, the five-time champions have a great backup option.
Where are CSK currently placed in the IPL 2026 points table?
Chennai Super Kings are at the fifth position in the points table with 3 wins in 7 games.
Who replaced Nathan Ellis in the CSK squad?
Spencer Johnson comes as an injury replacement of Nathan Ellis in the CSK squad.
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