CSK has ‘plenty of left-armers’ to swing ball away from SRH top order, says Spencer Johnson

Chennai Super Kings remains confident of winning all its remaining matches in IPL 2026 and lifting the title, fast bowler Spencer Johnson said on Sunday ahead of the clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium.

CSK is currently sixth on the points table with 12 points and must win both its remaining league matches – preferably by big margins – to improve its Net Run Rate and boost its playoff chances.

Despite the pressure, Johnson exuded confidence.

“I think we won three in a row recently. So, we’ll make it four in a row from here and then lift the trophy,” the Australian said.

Facing an in-form SRH batting unit, however, will not be straightforward. Led by Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, Hyderabad’s batters have not only piled on runs but done so at a rapid pace. In the reverse fixture earlier this season, Abhishek and Travis Head powered SRH to 75 in the PowerPlay.

Johnson said the first six overs would once again be decisive.

“I think the PowerPlay is so important for any team, whether with the bat or ball. You don’t necessarily win the game there, but you can definitely lose it. So, we obviously want to start well,” he said.

“They’re two world-class players. I think they’re among the best in the world in T20 cricket, so we’ll do our research on them. We’re playing them at home, so I feel like we’ve got an advantage there. It can be a little bouncier than what they’re used to in Hyderabad, and we’ll use that to our advantage. We’ve got our tactics for tomorrow and plenty of left-armers to swing the ball away from them, so we’re excited for the challenge,” he added.

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The 30-year-old joined the CSK squad as a replacement for fellow Australian quick Nathan Ellis, though Johnson himself had to clear fitness tests before arriving for the tournament. He made his CSK debut in the previous game against Lucknow Super Giants, returning with figures of 1/39 in four overs.

“I was very excited for the opportunity when Flem (Stephen Fleming) reached out about four weeks ago. I feel like the work Eric (Eric Simons), our bowling coach, has done in training has really helped me get up to speed. It’s been a busy couple of weeks, but I felt very backed by Flem, Eric, and Ritu (Ruturaj Gaikwad),” Johnson said.

Johnson added that representing CSK had been a privilege and an experience unlike any other.

“There’s always going to be pressure in this tournament – it’s the best in the world. I’m playing for probably the best franchise in the world, so just being here is a privilege,” he said.

“I don’t know if you saw it on TV the other night, but I was trying to smile and enjoy the game because it’s a game we all love. Playing for CSK is an unbelievable experience. It’s challenging, but I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else in the world,” Johnson added.

Published on May 17, 2026