Indian Premier League (IPL), where strategies are as crucial as the players themselves, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have always been known for their astute planning and execution. As IPL 2025 approaches, the spotlight isn’t just on the batsmen who dazzle with their strokes but also on the bowlers who can turn the tide with their craft. Among these, two names from CSK stand out for their potential to trouble even the best in the business, including the run-machine Virat Kohli. Matheesha Pathirana and Noor Ahmad, with their distinct bowling styles, could well be the key to unlocking Kohli’s defense.
Matheesha Pathirana, retained by CSK for a hefty sum of 13 crores, has quickly become a fan favorite and a critical component of the team’s bowling attack. His ability to swing the ball both ways at a brisk pace makes him a nightmare for any batsman, Kohli included. Pathirana’s knack for bowling yorkers in the death overs, combined with his deceptive slower balls, could test Kohli’s patience and timing. Kohli, known for his aggressive approach, might find Pathirana’s variations challenging, especially in the pressure cooker environment of the IPL. Pathirana’s performance in the previous seasons has shown that he thrives under pressure, and facing Kohli, who was the man of the match in the T20 World Cup 2024 scoring 76, would be the ultimate test of his skills.
Noor Ahmad, acquired for 10 crores, brings a different flavor to CSK’s bowling arsenal. As a leg-spinner, Ahmad’s role in the middle overs could be pivotal. Kohli, despite his prowess against spin, has had moments of vulnerability against quality leg-spin, particularly when the ball grips and turns sharply. Ahmad’s ability to flight the ball, combined with his natural googly, could pose puzzles for Kohli, who might be looking to dominate from the outset. The Afghan spinner’s recent performances have shown an improvement in his control and variations, making him a bowler to watch out for. His strategy might involve keeping it tight, not giving Kohli any room to free his arms, thereby forcing him into a defensive shell or a risky shot.
The challenge for Pathirana and Ahmad isn’t just about bowling well but about bowling smart against a player of Kohli’s caliber. Kohli’s approach in the IPL has often been about building an innings, but against these bowlers, he might need to adapt. Pathirana’s pace and Ahmad’s spin could force Kohli into a situation where he needs to rethink his usual aggressive stance, perhaps playing more cautiously or looking for unconventional shots to counter their bowling.
Virat Kohli remains one of the most consistent and destructive batsmen in the IPL, the bowling duo of Matheesha Pathirana and Noor Ahmad from CSK could present unique challenges. Their retention and acquisition, respectively, underline CSK’s strategy of not just relying on their batting but also fortifying their bowling to tackle the big names. As IPL 2025 unfolds, cricket fans will be eagerly watching these encounters, hoping to see if Pathirana and Ahmad can indeed trouble the ‘King’ of IPL cricket. The battles between Kohli and these two bowlers might just be the highlight of the season, showcasing the true spirit of cricket where skill, strategy, and execution meet in the middle.
