CSK Set to Sign 17 year old – Ayush Mhatre: Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of IPL’s most loved teams, has brought in a fresh young talent to replace their injured captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. The 17-year-old Mumbai boy Ayush Mhatre is all set to wear the yellow jersey in the ongoing IPL 2025 season. Below is the full story behind this big decision and how Ayush’s journey is an inspiring one.
Why CSK Needed a Replacement
Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK’s skipper, has unfortunately been ruled out of the tournament due to a hairline fracture on his elbow. This was a huge blow for the team, which has already been struggling this season. CSK is currently at the bottom of the points table, having won just one game so far. After the injury news, many fans expected that Prithvi Shaw might be called in. But CSK surprised everyone by choosing young Ayush Mhatre instead.
Who is Ayush Mhatre?
Ayush Mhatre is a young opener from Mumbai who was born in July 2007. That’s just a few months before MS Dhoni led India to the first T20 World Cup title. He comes from Virar, a place near Mumbai, and has made a name for himself in domestic cricket. Despite limited resources, Ayush worked hard from a young age. He travelled nearly 80 km every day for cricket coaching. His grandfather played a huge role in keeping him disciplined and motivated. His parents, too, supported him despite many financial struggles.
Ayush’s Cricket Journey So Far
Ayush started playing cricket at the age of six but began to take it seriously at 15. He has represented Mumbai at the Under-23 level and even played senior domestic matches. In first-class cricket, he has scored 504 runs in 9 matches, including 2 centuries. In List A matches (50-over format), he has hit 458 runs in 7 games, with 2 centuries, and a superb strike rate of over 135.
He even made headlines when he scored 181 runs in just 117 balls during a Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Nagaland in December 2024. This made him the youngest player to score more than 150 runs in a List A game.
His Cricketing Idol: Rohit Sharma
Like many young Mumbaikars, Ayush Mhatre’s cricketing idol is Rohit Sharma. He even got the chance to share the dressing room with Rohit during a Ranji Trophy match. Ayush wrote a heartfelt note to his hero during that game, showing just how much it meant to him.
Why CSK Picked Him
CSK had called Ayush along with two other players—Urvil Patel and Salman Nizar—for trials. The young batter impressed the CSK coaching staff during his trial in Chennai. The team management, including Stephen Fleming and MS Dhoni, saw great potential in him and decided to give the youngster a big break.
Ayush Mhatre wasn’t picked during the IPL auction, even though his base price was Rs 30 lakh. But destiny had other plans. Now, he has been asked to join the team for their big match against Mumbai Indians on April 20, 2025, at Wankhede Stadium. Although he will miss the next game against Lucknow Super Giants due to travel, he will be available for selection soon.
Also Read: IPL Orange Cap Winners (2008 – 2025)
MS Dhoni Back as Captain
With Ruturaj out, MS Dhoni is back leading CSK. But the team had a poor start under his return, losing badly to Kolkata Knight Riders. The CSK batting line-up has been weak, with players like Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, and Shivam Dube not performing as expected. Coach Stephen Fleming also spoke about how batting craft is still important in T20 cricket and that teams shouldn’t only focus on sixes and fours.
Conclusion
Ayush Mhatre’s story is nothing short of inspiring. From long daily travels to chasing his cricket dream, and now getting a golden opportunity with CSK, it’s a proud moment for him and his family. Fans will be eager to see how this young talent performs on the big stage. With MS Dhoni’s guidance and CSK’s support, Ayush could become one of India’s next big stars.
FAQs
Who is Ayush Mhatre?
A 17-year-old Mumbai opener, chosen by CSK as a replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Why is Ruturaj Gaikwad not playing?
He suffered a hairline fracture on his elbow and is ruled out for IPL 2025.
When will Ayush Mhatre join the CSK squad?
He will join the team before their April 20 match against Mumbai Indians.
Did Prithvi Shaw get selected?
No, despite being considered, CSK chose Ayush Mhatre over Prithvi Shaw.
What are Ayush Mhatre’s records?
He has 504 runs in first-class matches and 458 runs in List A games, including two centuries in each format.
Who is Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Replacement in IPL 2025
A 17-year-old Mumbai opener, Ayush Mhatre is set to replace Ruturaj Gaikwad as replacement.
