Mumbai youngster Ayush Mhatre joins Chennai Super Kings for remainder of IPL 2025, ruling out speculations of Prithvi Shaw’s return.
April 14, 2025: In a surprising yet strategic move, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed 17-year-old Mumbai opener Ayush Mhatre as a replacement for injured skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been ruled out of IPL 2025 due to a hairline fracture on his elbow. This decision ends widespread speculation that Prithvi Shaw, who went unsold in the IPL auction, might make a comeback.
CSK sources confirmed that Mhatre will join the squad but won’t be available for the next match against Lucknow Super Giants. He is expected to be in contention for the blockbuster clash against Mumbai Indians at Wankhede on April 20.
“Yes, Ayush Mhatre has been identified as the replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad… He will be available for selection for the April 20 fixture against Mumbai Indians,” a CSK source told Hindustan Times.
Mhatre had recently impressed the CSK coaching staff during trials held in Chennai. The talented right-hander has made a mark in domestic cricket, scoring 504 runs in 9 first-class matches and 458 runs in 7 List-A games, including two centuries. He made his first-class debut in October 2024.
Captain Dhoni Returns, But CSK Falter
Following Gaikwad’s injury, MS Dhoni was reinstated as captain. However, his return didn’t yield results as CSK suffered a heavy defeat at home to Kolkata Knight Riders, managing only 103/9, which KKR chased with ease.
With seasoned batters like Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, and Shivam Dube underperforming, CSK find themselves at the bottom of the table, struggling to ignite their championship spark.
Coach Stephen Fleming defended the team’s approach, saying,
“There’s still room for craft. The game isn’t just about sixes and fours. I hope we don’t turn it into a baseball contest.”
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