New Delhi, March 20 -- Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan said that the absence of Australian pacer Nathan Ellis would be a "big concern" for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and pointed out how filling the gap left by him with Indian pacers Anshul Kamboj and Khaleel Ahmed would be a difficult task for the five-time champions.

Ahead of the IPL 2026, CSK has suffered a major blow, with their pacer Ellis set to miss the tournament due to a hamstring injury. Having developed a reputation as one of the finest bowlers in the T20 circuit with an exceptional skillset for death overs, his absence will no doubt leave a dent on CSK's title chances.

With Ellis out of the squad, the pace options left with CSK are: All-rounders Jamie Overton and Shivam...