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IPL 2026: RCB’s problems resolved before the playoffs, Thushara’s replacement found; Kuldeep Yadav joins CSK

Samira Vishwas | May 16, 2026 11:24 AM CST

At the crucial juncture of IPL 2026, injuries dealt a big blow to Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. Both the teams announced the replacement of their injured players. Chennai Super Kings included fast bowler Kuldeep Yadav in the team in place of Khalil Ahmed, while RCB gave a chance to England fast bowler Richard Gleeson in place of Sri Lanka’s Nuwan Thushara.

Chennai Super Kings has signed Kuldeep Yadav for Rs 30 lakh. Kuldeep is a medium pacer and has previously played IPL for Rajasthan Royals. He made his IPL debut in the year 2021 and has played three matches in the league so far. In domestic cricket, Kuldeep is known for his accurate line-length and ability to swing the new ball.

CSK got Khalil’s replacement
CSK has already struggled with many injuries this season. The team suffered a big loss in the fast bowling department due to the exclusion of Khalil Ahmed. In such a situation, the team management is considering Kuldeep Yadav as a backup option.

Gleeson came to RCB in place of Thushara
Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bangalore have included experienced English fast bowler Richard Gleeson in their team for Rs 1.6 crore. Gleeson has played 6 T20 International matches for England and has taken nine wickets.

Interestingly, Gleeson has been a part of IPL before also. He has played for Chennai Super Kings in 2024 and Mumbai Indians in 2025. Although he did not get many chances, RCB has expressed confidence in him considering his death over bowling and ability to generate extra bounce.

RCB was missing fast bowling due to injury to Nuwan Thushara. The race for the playoffs has become very exciting and at such a time the team does not want to ignore any weakness. Now it will be interesting to see how much impact Kuldeep Yadav and Richard Gleeson can make for their new teams. Both teams have their eyes set on the playoffs and every match has now become do or die.