Chennai Super Kings’ Noor Ahmad, left, interacts with wicketkeeper Sanju Samson (PTI Photo) Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed concern over Noor Ahmad’s form, terming it the biggest problem for Chennai Super Kings following their 43-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026.Noor, who was one of CSK’s standout performers last season, has struggled to make a name for himself this year. The left-arm spinner went wicketless in three matches, conceding over 100 runs in around 10 overs, including an expensive one against RCB where he was dismantled by Rajat Patidar and Tim David.“He (Noor) is CSK’s biggest problem right now. He has bowled around 10 overs and conceded over 100 runs this season. He doesn’t have a single wicket. I believe if he corrects his angle, the alignment will improve and his arm which was falling to one side will also straighten,” said Pathan.Pathan also expressed his disappointment with Matt Henry, stating that the veteran pacer has not lived up to expectations so far. Henry conceded 36 runs in three overs against RCB without picking up a wicket and looked ineffective throughout the campaign.“I am very disappointed with his bowling because he brings a lot of experience. He has had performances and good economy but he has not been able to perform like that in this league. An experienced bowler does not play the half-volley. Anshul Kamboj dismissed Virat Kohli with a bouncer after seeing him step out. Matt Henry bowled a full delivery even though he saw Virat step out.The former all-rounder went on to point out the tactical errors in CSK’s approach to Tim David, whose unbeaten 70 off 25 balls took RCB to a daunting total of 250/3.“Tim David usually stands outside leg stump. So bowling on side stump gives him width. If a bowler thinks he’s not going to make space by bowling on side stump, it actually gives him space. You have to bowl on middle stump and leg stump or he’ll hit you. You can block him initially, which Chennai didn’t take full advantage of.”CSK’s struggles have now stretched to three consecutive defeats at the start of the season. They will look to bounce back when they take on Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on April 11.
