Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of IPL 2026 due to a grade 2 quadriceps tear, which will require 10-12 weeks of rehabilitation. Ahmed, who participated in all five of CSK's matches so far, reported pain in his right hip during the game against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 14. Despite this setback, CSK recently secured a 32-run victory over KKR, marking their second consecutive win. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad expressed optimism about the team's progress, stating, "Slowly, slowly, it is starting to come together." CSK's performance was bolstered by Noor Ahmad, who took three wickets, effectively dismantling KKR's chase. Gaikwad emphasized the importance of adapting to the pitch conditions, noting that the team aimed for a score of around 220 runs but settled for a defendable 192/5.