Chennai Super Kings spinner Noor Ahmad returned to top form with a brilliant match-winning spell of 3 for 21 against Kolkata Knight Riders in an IPL 2026 clash, marking a significant turnaround after a lean run of performances earlier in the season.
The Afghan wrist-spinner played a decisive role in Chennai Super Kings’s dominant showing, dismantling the batting lineup of Kolkata Knight Riders with his control, variations, and sharp turn. His spell not only helped CSK gain control of the match but also underlined his ability to bounce back under pressure.
Speaking after the match, CSK bowling coach Sridharan Sriram highlighted the key adjustments behind Noor’s resurgence. He pointed out that conditions on the day supported spin, but emphasized that the bowler’s improved execution was central to his success.
“There was a little bit of turn for him. The wicket was slightly slower through the air, and there was more side spin and drop,” Sriram explained. “That is something he has been working on.”
However, one of the most important influences behind Noor Ahmad’s turnaround was revealed to be a detailed interaction with CSK icon MS Dhoni during a practice session. According to Sriram, Dhoni had a long conversation with the young spinner, focusing particularly on refining his leg-break and improving consistency in length.
“Even MS had a long chat with him in one of the practice sessions, especially about getting his leg-break going. It was very helpful and the results were there to see,” the coach said.
Despite taking only four wickets in his first five matches of IPL 2026, three of which came in this standout performance, the CSK management believes Noor’s progress has been steady, with earlier struggles attributed partly to flat pitches and difficult conditions for spin.
Sriram further explained that adaptability has been key to success in this season. “Being able to get deviation off the surface is very important. There will be days when wickets are flat, but you still have to be aggressive and put revs on the ball to induce mistakes.”
He also praised Noor’s tactical awareness, noting how quickly the spinner learns and adjusts. According to the coach, Noor actively studies batters, sets his fields intelligently, and understands variations in pace and length, making him a valuable asset for CSK’s bowling attack.
“One of his strengths is that he gets late movement. When he gets it right consistently, he becomes very difficult to play,” Sriram added.
With this performance, Noor Ahmad not only delivered a match-winning spell but also reinforced his reputation as a smart, evolving spinner capable of thriving under the mentorship-driven culture of CSK.
