Cricket News, IPL 2026, Ayush Mhatre, Cricket Updates
Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season after sustaining a left hamstring injury, dealing a significant setback to Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
The 18-year-old batter picked up the injury during CSK’s clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 18. According to a statement released by the franchise, Mhatre is expected to undergo a rehabilitation period of six to twelve weeks. The team has yet to announce a replacement.
Mhatre was batting fluently after coming in as an Impact Player, replacing Gurjapneet Singh early in CSK’s chase of 195. He had raced to 30 off just 12 balls when he pulled up sharply while completing a second run on a call from captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. Clearly in discomfort, he received on-field treatment from the team physiotherapist before briefly continuing. However, his movement remained restricted, and he was dismissed soon after.
Speaking after the match, CSK batting coach Mike Hussey expressed concern over the youngster’s injury. “It looks pretty bad, unfortunately. He’s been in really nice touch for us and will be a big loss,” Hussey said.
Mhatre has been one of CSK’s standout performers this season, leading the team’s run charts with 201 runs in six innings at an impressive strike rate of 177.87. His absence leaves a gap in the top order, with Urvil Patel a potential replacement at No. 3.
The injury adds to a growing list of concerns for CSK this season. Veteran wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni has yet to feature due to a calf strain, while fast bowler Nathan Ellis has already been ruled out with a hamstring issue. His replacement, Spencer Johnson, is also recovering from injury and has not joined the squad. Additionally, pacer Khaleel Ahmed was recently sidelined with a right quadricep injury.
It has been a challenging campaign so far for the five-time champions, who currently sit eighth on the points table with just two wins from six matches.
