At a glance
- CSK have signed Karnataka all-rounder Macneil Noronha for IPL 2026
- Noronha replaces injured seamer Ramakrishna Ghosh in Chennai’s squad
- The 21-year-old impressed in domestic cricket with bat and ball during 2024-25
Chennai Super Kings have strengthened their IPL 2026 squad by signing Karnataka all-rounder Macneil Noronha as a replacement for the injured Ramakrishna Ghosh.
Noronha joins the franchise for his base price of INR 30-lakh after a breakout domestic season that brought him firmly onto the national radar.
Noronha Rewarded After Impressive Domestic Campaign
The young all-rounder arrives in Chennai following a string of standout performances across India’s domestic circuit. Noronha recently received the prestigious MA Chidambaram Trophy at the BCCI’s annual Naman Awards after finishing as the leading run-scorer in the 2024-25 Col CK Nayudu Trophy.
He also played a major role in Mangaluru Dragons’ Maharaja Trophy triumph in 2025. Across 10 innings, Noronha scored 253 runs and claimed 10 wickets with his off-spin, underlining his value as a genuine multi-dimensional player.
One of his most eye-catching knocks came during the 2024 Maharaja T20 when he blasted 43 from just 19 balls for Mangaluru Dragons against Shivamogga Lions.
Noronha also featured for Karnataka in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy where he scored 58 runs and picked up one wicket in three T20 appearances.
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CSK Sign Macneil Noronha to Cover Injury Absences
CSK moved quickly for a replacement after Ramakrishna Ghosh suffered a fractured foot during his IPL debut against Mumbai Indians on May 2.
Despite the setback, Ghosh made an encouraging first impression by returning figures of 1 for 24 in his only appearance of the tournament.
Injuries have continued to disrupt Chennai’s campaign throughout the season. Ayush Mhatre, Nathan Ellis and Khaleel Ahmed have all spent time on the sidelines, while former captain MS Dhoni has yet to feature due to a calf strain.
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CSK Still Firmly in Play-Off Race
Despite their injury concerns, Chennai remain firmly in contention for the play-offs. CSK currently sit fifth in the standings with 12 points from 11 matches.
The five-time champions now turn their attention to a crucial clash against Lucknow Super Giants on Friday as they look to strengthen their push toward the knockout stage.
For Noronha, the call-up represents a major opportunity to break onto the IPL stage and continue his rapid rise in Indian cricket.
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