Ravichandran Ashwin names perfect death bowler for CSK’s IPL 2026 campaign

Former Team India pacer Ravichandran Ashwin has paid tribute to Australian pacer Nathan Ellis during the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 season. Ashwin said that Ellis could play a key role for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with the ball in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, given his skills and versatility.

With Mathisha Pathirana moving to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the Super Kings will need to find a reliable death option. Nathan Ellis could be a good option, even if he’s not a replacement like him. Ellis, who was part of the CSK squad last season, featured in just one match, taking one wicket for 38 runs.

Nathan Ellis leads the Hobart Hurricanes’ bowling efforts against the Rebels

Hobart Hurricanes skipper Nathan Ellis played a crucial role in restricting the Melbourne Renegades to 162/9 after winning the toss. The Renegades got off to a strong start, but poor shot selection and soft dismissals saw them unravel against their disciplined bowling.

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Ellis led the Hurricanes’ attack with control and smart variations. He batted at crucial moments and finished with impressive figures of 3 for 30. With strong support from the rest of the bowling unit, Ellis ensured the Renegades were kept to a total of around 20 to 25 under par.

After reaching 72/2 inside the Powerplay, the Rebels regularly lost wickets through the middle. Some lower-ranked resistances were unable to repair the damage, and another collapse during a power-up left them well below the competitive score.

Nathan Ellis locked in ‘punk’ – Ravichandran Ashwin

After the Melbourne Renegades innings, Ravichandran Ashwin said that Nathan Ellis played well in all phases of the innings. Ashwin added that Ellis has been given a consistent role in the death overs for Chennai Super Kings, adding that he could become a regular member in the 2026 IPL season.

“The guys in yellow will be happy with the way he’s shaping up. 4-0-30-3 for the Hobart Hurricanes today,” Ravichandran Ashwin wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

“More importantly, 2-0-15-2 at the death, bowling 17 and 20, nailing his fielders and changing the pace. Is it safe to say that two Ellises are locked in ‘Pauk’ at the death for the summer of 26?” He added.

The guys in yellow would be happy with the way he was shaping up.

4-0-30-3 for the Hobart Hurricanes today.

Most importantly, 2-0-15-2 at the death, bowling 17 and 20, nailing yorkers and changing the pace.

It is safe to say that two Ellises are locked in “Pauk” in Death to… pIC.RThIRRep.CSM/ZYyourg0IpXCS

– Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) DeCeMforep 29, 2025

Nathan Ellis can be a key player in all phases for CSK

Nathan Ellis is seen as a bowler who thrives on responsibility and can be trusted at any stage of the innings. This flexibility makes him a valuable option for Chennai Super Kings, whose bowling attack is experienced but lacks a player who can be relied upon in all situations.

Ellis played with intensity throughout his spell and offered a wide range of variations. Although he may not be a fast bowler, he hits the pitch hard, maintains his pace, and constantly attacks the stumps, making life uncomfortable for the batsmen.

His clever use of slow balls and changes of pace can be particularly effective on the low, slow surfaces at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Under the circumstances, Ellis has the skills to become a real difference-maker for CSK, especially in moments of pressure.

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