Chennai Super Kings bought Matt Henry for ₹2 crore at the auction. The New Zealand pacer joins the IPL team despite never playing in the IPL before. CSK took a gamble on this experienced international bowler for 2026. His international credentials convinced the franchise to invest in him confidently. This marks Henry’s first-ever IPL contract after years of top cricket.
Matt Henry’s IPL Price and Auction Journey
The price of ₹2 crore seems reasonable for an untested IPL player. Matt Henry brings zero IPL match experience to the Chennai Super Kings surprisingly. Most teams hesitate to buy players without league experience at all usually. However, his international record speaks louder than his IPL absence does here.
CSK clearly values his skills from watching him play elsewhere globally. The salary reflects cautious optimism about his ability to adapt quickly. Henry will primarily bowl as his main role for the squad. No batting or bowling IPL stats exist for him obviously yet.
His reputation from international cricket made CSK take this calculated risk boldly.
Impressive International Career Stats
Matt Henry destroyed batsmen across formats for New Zealand consistently over the years. He played 33 Test matches grabbing 140 wickets with best figures of 7/23. His ODI record shows 172 wickets from 95 matches with 5/30 best. Even in T20Is, Henry took 40 wickets across 31 games played.
He made history by taking four wickets in consecutive ODI innings multiple times. That’s a world record nobody else achieved before him remarkably shown. His debut ODI brought four wickets immediately which ranks among the best starts.
Henry participated in the 2015 World Cup semi-final and final matches. Back surgery in 2012 almost ended his career before it started. He fought back from that injury showing incredible mental strength and determination.
What CSK Gets in 2026
The IPL team adds genuine pace bowling experience to their attack now. Matt Henry bowled in county cricket and various leagues worldwide successfully already. His resilience in overcoming injuries proves his toughness and commitment to cricket clearly.
CSK needs overseas pacers who can perform consistently throughout long tournaments. He missed the Champions Trophy 2025 final due to injury unfortunately for him. The team hopes he stays fit during the entire IPL season.
