Chennai Super Kings pacer’s mother dies after prolonged illness

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A major personal tragedy struck the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp ahead of their high-profile El Clásico clash against Mumbai Indians. Left-arm pacer Mukesh Choudhary left the team bubble on Thursday, April 23, 2026, following the sad demise of his mother Prem Devi. She passed away late on Tuesday evening at Tata Hospital in Mumbai after a year of courageously battling a chronic illness.

Mukesh rushed to his hometown Bhilwara, Rajasthan to perform the last rites along with his family, leaving a significant gap in the CSK bowling department in an already injury-plagued season. He is likely to miss CSK’s clash with Mumbai Indians on April 23. His return date is still pending.

The CSK family mourns the death of Mukesh Choudhary’s mother.

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We stand with Mukesh and his family and keep them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) April 23, 2026

How will Mukesh Choudhary’s absence affect CSK against MI?

The loss of Mukesh Choudhary is a major tactical blow for Ruturaj Gaikwad and the CSK management. Mukesh had recently taken over new ball duties following Khaleel Ahmed’s season-ending injury. His ability to swing the ball early at the Wankhede Stadium was expected to be a main weapon against MI’s top order.

With Mukesh absent due to personal reasons, the five-time champions face a severe lack of domestic fast bowling options. Reports suggest management could now turn to New Zealander Matt Henry to lead the attack. However, signing Henry would force a reshuffle of overseas slots, potentially benching players such as Matthew Short or Akeal Hosein to maintain the limit of four overseas players.

What are the other injury concerns for Chennai Super Kings?

The Mukesh Choudhary tragedy is just the latest in a series of misfortunes for the Yellow Army in IPL 2026. The team is currently struggling with a depleted squad:

• Ayush Mhatre: The rising star was recently sidelined with a serious left thigh injury Injurywhich creates a gap in the crucial number three position.

• Khaleel Ahmed: The left-back was ruled out of the entire tournament last week and the club has not yet named an official replacement.

• MS Dhoni & Dewald Brevis: Both regular players have struggled since the start of the season and Dhoni’s participation in today’s game is subject to a late fitness test.