Chennai: The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have recruited Karnataka all-rounder Macneil Noronha to replace the sidelined Ramakrishna Ghosh for the duration of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, according to an official league statement.

Ghosh, a bowling all-rounder, saw his campaign cut short after participating in only a single contest. During the May 2 fixture against the Mumbai Indians, he sustained a right foot injury that has effectively ruled him out for the rest of the year.

"Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have picked a player replacement for Ramakrishna Ghosh, who injured his right foot during their game against the Mumbai Indians. He has been ruled out for the season," the IPL statement confirmed.

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Noronha joins the five-time championship franchise for a fee of Rs 30 lakh. The young cricketer arrives with significant momentum, having recently been honoured with the MA Chidambaram Trophy at the Naman awards. The accolade recognised him as the leading run-scorer of the 2024/25 Colonel CK Nayudu Trophy, where he amassed 1,037 runs across 14 innings. His performance in that tournament was highlighted by a top score of 345 and a formidable average of 79.77.

On the strength of his domestic success, Noronha earned a promotion to the Karnataka state squad for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, appearing in three matches.

The acquisition comes at a pivotal juncture for Chennai. Under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad, the team has staged a resilient turnaround following a dismal start that saw them drop three consecutive games. Currently occupying the fifth spot on the points table, the Super Kings have secured six victories against five defeats in 11 outings. Riding a three-match winning streak, the club aims to maximise its results in the remaining three group-stage fixtures to secure a berth in the playoffs.

With inputs from ANI