CSK signing 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre as a replacement for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad in IPL 2025.

Chennai Super Kings are set to rope in 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre as a replacement for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad in the ongoing IPL 2025. The young Mumbai opener will join the squad ahead of CSK’s high-profile clash against Mumbai Indians on April 20.

Ayush impresses at trials, beats strong competition

CSK shortlisted Ayush Mhatre after an impressive trial earlier this season. Despite evaluating Urvil Patel from Gujarat and Salman Nizar from Kerala, the team management picked Ayush for his composure and his wide range of shots that mirror Rohit Sharma’s style — his childhood idol. CSK finalized the decision soon after Ruturaj suffered a fractured elbow on April 10.

A humble journey from Virar to the IPL

Born in July 2007 in Virar, Mumbai, Ayush grew up in modest surroundings. He travelled nearly 80 km daily to train, supported by his grandfather Laxmikant Naik, who ensured he never missed practice or school. Ayush began playing cricket at six, but only at 15 did he realize he could chase it as a full-time career.

Ayush made rapid strides in domestic cricket. He debuted for Mumbai U23 in December 2023 and earned a senior team call-up within ten months. In his first Ranji Trophy season, he scored 504 runs in nine matches, including two centuries. In List A cricket, he smashed 458 runs in seven matches, boasting an average of 65.42 and a strike rate of 135.50.

Record-breaking knock and U19 success

In December 2024, Ayush hit headlines after scoring a breathtaking 181 off 117 balls against Nagaland in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He became the youngest cricketer to score 150 or more in a List A game. He also starred for India in the U19 Asia Cup, scoring 176 runs in five matches.

Ayush met his idol Rohit Sharma during a Ranji Trophy match earlier this year and shared a heartfelt note. Now, the teenager is ready to take the big leap with CSK in IPL 2025 under MS Dhoni’s mentorship.

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