Ravichandran Ashwin Backs Nathan Ellis as CSK’s New Death-Over Specialist for IPL 2026
Chennai Super Kings pacer Nathan Ellis has received a strong endorsement from former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who believes the Australian fast bowler is the ideal candidate to fill the death-over specialist role for CSK in IPL 2026. Ellis delivered an impressive performance for the Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL, showcasing his control and variation at crucial stages.
Ellis, who was part of the CSK squad last season but featured in only one match, finished with figures of 3 for 30, including a decisive spell of 2-0-15-2 in the 17th and 20th overs. With Matheesha Pathirana having moved to Kolkata Knight Riders, CSK needs a reliable option for the high-pressure death overs. Ashwin highlighted Ellis's ability to nail his yorkers and change of pace, suggesting he is now a locked-in option for the crucial final overs, particularly on the slow surfaces of the MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Ellis's versatility and ability to bowl with intensity across all phases make him a valuable asset for the Super Kings. His potential emergence as a key all-phase bowler could significantly strengthen CSK's bowling unit as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing previous season.
“Most importantly, 2-0-15-2 at the death, bowling 17 and 20, nailing his yorkers and change of pace. Safe to say two overs of Ellis are locked at the ‘Pauk’ in the death for the summer of 26?”
Ravichandran Ashwin
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- Nathan Ellis
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- Bowler
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- CSK
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Related Statistics
Chennai Super Kings Price per Wicket 2025 | Value for Money
Top 5 players in Chennai Super Kings with the lowest price per wicket in IPL 2025 (salary divided by wickets taken).
| Rank | Player | Team | price-per-wicket-2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Chennai Super Kings | ₹30.00 lakh per wicket | |
#2 | Chennai Super Kings | ₹32.00 lakh per wicket | |
#3 | Chennai Super Kings | ₹41.67 lakh per wicket | |
| #4 | Chennai Super Kings | ₹42.50 lakh per wicket | |
| #5 | Chennai Super Kings | ₹2.00 crore per wicket |
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“Most importantly, 2-0-15-2 at the death, bowling 17 and 20, nailing his yorkers and change of pace. Safe to say two overs of Ellis are locked at the ‘Pauk’ in the death for the summer of 26?”
Ravichandran Ashwin
- Player
- Nathan Ellis
- Specialization
- Bowler
- Team
- CSK
- Analyze
- Analyze Performance
- Team
- Team Performance