CSK Suffer Major Setback as ₹14.20 Crore Buy Prashant Veer Injured Ahead of IPL 2026

In preparation for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have been having challenges even before the season kicks off. The franchise, which had acquired the most costly uncapped player in the IPL Auction, has been dealt a major setback. The franchise had acquired all-rounder Prashant Veer for ₹14.20 crore. However, he was injured in a match in the Ranji Trophy tournament, and his availability for IPL 2026 was put into doubt. He sustained an injury to his right shoulder while in the field.

Prashant Veer sustained this injury in a Ranji Trophy match between Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. Prashant Veer was fielding at mid-off in the 30th over of a Ranji Trophy encounter between Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand when he dived to his right to stop a mighty shot from Shikhar Mohan. The ball stopped, but his right shoulder hit the ground hard as he fell. He lay on the field in pain for a long time. The physio immediately applied pain relief spray, but he was later taken off the field and sent to the hospital for a scan.

According to initial reports, Prashant Veer is suspected to have a grade 2 tear, which could keep him out of cricket for at least three weeks. IPL 2026 is scheduled to begin in late March, so the pressure on his fitness will increase over time. With less than two months left for the IPL to begin, CSK may have to explore other options if his recovery is delayed.

In the IPL 2026 mini auction, Chennai Super Kings had shown great confidence in Uttar Pradesh all-rounder Prashant Veer. With a bid of ₹14.20 crore, he became the most expensive uncapped player in IPL history. Fans have touted him as Ravindra Jadeja's replacement for the franchise. But this injury before the start of the season has made things difficult for CSK.