The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) had another disappointing IPL 2026 season, failing to qualify for the playoffs for the third straight year (2024, 2025 and 2026). Their campaign ended on May 21 with an 89-run defeat against the Gujarat Titans. The ‘Yellow Army’ finished with just six wins in 14 matches.
While several issues contributed to CSK’s poor season, one of the biggest talking points was the underwhelming campaign of young all-rounder Prashant Veer.
Bought for a massive price at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, Prashant Veer entered the tournament with huge expectations.
The Uttar Pradesh all-rounder became the joint-most expensive uncapped Indian player in IPL history after an intense bidding war involving Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
Prashant Veer's performance in IPL 2026
Prashant played only six matches during the season and scored 90 runs at an average of 45 and a strike-rate of 134.32.
It is important to mention that Prashant was not given enough chances by the franchise and was never the first-choice player in the CSK's playing XI in IPL 2026.
His IPL debut came against Punjab Kings, where he scored an unbeaten six runs in a losing cause. The CSK management also did not use his bowling well. Despite being known as a spin-bowling all-rounder, Prashant bowled only two overs in the entire tournament.
Criterion
Data
Matches
6
Runs
90
Average
45.00
Strike rate
134.32
(Prashant Veer's Batting Stats in IPL 2026)
Criterion
Data
Matches
6
Wickets
0
Economy
12.50
(Prashant Veer's Bowling Stats in IPL 2026)
Prashant Veer's IPL 2026 Price
Prashant's auction price became one of the biggest headlines of IPL 2026. Starting with a base price of just ₹30 lakh, his value skyrocketed before CSK secured him for ₹14.20 crore.
The franchise invested heavily in him because they saw long-term potential. His domestic performances in VHT Elite 2025-26, SMAT Elite T20 and UP T20 2025 made him one of the most exciting uncapped talents.
Prashant Veer's Cost Per Run In IPL 2026
Since Prashant Veer scored 90 runs in IPL 2026, his cost per run comes to approximately ₹16.27 lakh (₹1627777.77).
Prashant's Cost Per Wicket In IPL 2026
It is important to note that his bowling figures looked even more disappointing. Prashant Veer bowled only two overs across six matches, conceded 25 runs, and failed to take a wicket. As a result, his cost per wicket is infinite.
Should CSK release Prashant Veer ahead of IPL 2027? Sakshi's opinion
In my opinion, CSK should not release Prashant Veer ahead of IPL 2027. Yes, his first season was disappointing, and the franchise did not get the returns expected from a ₹14.20 crore player. But releasing him after just one difficult season would be a harsh decision.
The biggest reason behind his struggles was the lack of opportunities and role clarity from the 'Yellow Army'.
CSK invested in him as a long-term player and should maintain their patience.
Prashant Veer in IPL 2026 (Source: AP)
