How Virat Kohli And Co Can Counter CSK's Newest Threat, Noor Ahmad

Noor Ahmad and Virat Kohli [Source: @ImTanujSingh, @neeraj421058712/x.com]

Chennai Super Kings' newest spin acquisition, Noor Ahmad, has undergone a remarkable transformation in IPL 2025. The left-arm wrist spin bowler has simplified his approach with devastating effect. As Royal Challengers Bengaluru prepares to face CSK, here's how they can counter this refined threat.

Noor Ahmad 2.0: More Lethal, Less Predictable

Noor Ahmad has evolved from a spinner with multiple variations to a specialist who relies primarily on his stock spinning in delivery to right handers. Against Mumbai Indians, he claimed 4 wickets while conceding just 18 runs from 4 overs. The data reveals a calculated shift in his strategy:

His length distribution has also changed significantly:

Noor Ahmad's Bowling Strategy Evolution [Source: OneCricket]

How RCB Should Tackle Noor Ahmad -

1. Right-Handed Dominance

Noor's stock chinaman delivery turns in toward right-handed batters, potentially creating LBW and bowled opportunities. However, this also presents scoring opportunities on the leg side. RCB should leverage their right-handed batters (Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Phil Salt, Liam Livingstone) who can use their strength on the leg side to capitalise on these deliveries.

2. Target the Wrong'un

While Noor has reduced his wrong'un usage to just 7.41%, it remains his primary variation and can be a wicket-taking delivery as it moves away from right-handers. Batters must watch his wrist position carefully – the back of the hand facing the batsman indicates the wrong'un, while a more visible palm signals his stock delivery.

3. Feet Movement is Key

With Noor bowling significantly fuller lengths in 2025 (51.85% vs 21.59% in 2023-24), RCB batters need to either get fully forward to smother the spin or play right back to create room for shots.

4. Left-hander as Disruptors

RCB should strategically position Devdutt Padikkal, their primary left-handed batter, against Noor. For left-handers, Noor's stock delivery turns away, making him less threatening for LBWs but creating caught-behind opportunities. Padikkal can be used to disrupt Noor's rhythm and potentially force him to adjust his line.

---

ALSO READ

Not Noor Ahmad But 'This' Player Deserved The Man Of The Match In MI vs CSK

---