The injury news regarding Prashant Veer has sent shockwaves through the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp, as their record-breaking investment now faces a race against time ahead of the start of 2026 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Injury to CSK’s Prashant Veer and initial medical assessment

On January 22, 2026, the 20-year-old all-rounder suffered a significant shoulder injury while representing Uttar Pradesh in their Ranji Trophy 2025-26 clash against Jharkhand at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. This setback is particularly devastating as Veer was the joint-most expensive uncapped player in IPL history, secured for a staggering INR 14.20 crore just last month.

As per the ESPNcricinfo report “The injury occurred just before lunch in the 30th over when Veer dived to his right at mid-off to stop a firm hit by Jharkhand’s Shikhar Mohan. While he successfully stopped the ball, he landed awkwardly on his right shoulder and lay motionless for a brief while in clear pain. Although he was administered pain-relief spray immediately, Veer was pulled out of the field and taken to the hospital for scans. When he returned to the stadium, his arm was in a sling, and he has been ruled out of the remainder of the match.” Initial reports suggest a grade-2 tear, which typically keeps a player out of action for at least three weeks.

Strategic concerns for Chennai Super Kings and path to recovery for IPL 2026 availability

The timing of this injury leaves CSK anxious, as the IPL 2026 season is set to begin on March 26. The franchise spent a whopping ₹14.20 crore on Veer, viewing him as the potential successor to Ravindra Jadejawho shifted to Rajasthan Royals this season. As the most expensive uncapped player in auction history, Veer’s all-round skills are central to CSK’s tactical plans. Missing him would be a body blow to their middle-order balance, especially since the team relies on his left-arm spin and finishing ability to stabilize the lineup alongside veteran MS Dhoni.

With the IPL starting in less than two months, the three-week recovery window for a grade-2 tear is a tight but manageable timeline. Veer is expected to begin an intensive rehabilitation program, likely at the National Cricket Academy (NCA)to regain full range of motion before the tournament opener. CSK fans and management will be monitoring his progress closely, as any setbacks could force the team to look for injury replacements. For now, the focus remains on whether Veer can recover in time to join the pre-season camp and justify the massive ‘big bet’ placed on him during the Abu Dhabi auction.