Chennai Super Kings have suffered a monumental blow as youngster Ayush Mhatre, who was injured in the last match, has now been ruled out of IPL 2026 tournament.
The 18-year-old U19 World Cup-winning captain suffered the injury while attempting a quick second run early in CSK's innings against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18 in Hyderabad.
He visibly clutched his hamstring, received on-field treatment multiple times, and continued batting under discomfort before getting out. Physio Tommy Simsek and teammate Ramakrishna Ghosh assisted him off the field. Scans confirmed the tear, prompting CSK's official update, and now the player has been ruled out for six to twelve weeks, effectively ruling him out of IPL 2026.
Mhatre had emerged as one of CSK's
brightest sparks in a disappointing season so far. In six matches, he amassed 201 runs at a blistering strike rate of around 178, including two half-centuries and aggressive cameos like 73 off 43 against PBKS and 59 off 36 against DC. His fearless top-order batting provided the momentum the five-time champions desperately needed amid their inconsistent form, currently sitting with just 2 wins from 6 games and a negative net run rate.
CSK have a Long List of Injury
This latest setback adds to CSK's mounting fitness woes. Seamer Khaleel Ahmed was recently ruled out of the entire tournament with a quadriceps injury, while pace bowler Nathan Ellis missed the season before it even began. All-rounder Dewald Brevis was unavailable for the initial matches due to injury, and veteran MS Dhoni continues to recover from a side strain, having missed the early games (though he remains a potential contender for selection depending on fitness). The team is also awaiting the arrival of replacement pacer Spencer Johnson.
The injury has sparked criticism, with former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin expressing shock at how CSK handled the situation, allowing Mhatre to continue batting despite clear signs of distress.CSK's next challenge is a high-stakes clash against Mumbai Indians on April 23 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Who will Replace Ayush Mhatre at CSK?
CSK are yet to name a replacement for Ayush Mhatre but the franchise may well be prompted to name one soon in the coming days.
