Ayush Mhatre impressive start to life in the IPL continued as the young prodigy made his mark in his first home appearance at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, donning the yellow of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with confidence and flair. The 17-year-old opener scored a brisk 30 off 19 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad, giving CSK a bright and energetic start despite another turbulent outing for the team overall.
A Debut Born of Crisis, Answered with Courage
Mhatre was drafted into the squad under challenging circumstances. With captain Ruturaj Gaikwad sidelined due to injury, CSK’s management made a bold move by naming the teenager as a replacement, hoping to breathe fresh life into a floundering top order. Coming into a high-pressure environment like the IPL, especially for a team of CSK’s stature, is no small feat. But Mhatre didn’t just survive — he thrived.
He first turned heads with a breezy cameo against the Mumbai Indians, showcasing his natural flair and timing. His innings against SRH was yet another reminder that the young man is not just a short-term solution, but potentially a long-term asset for the franchise.
From Domestic Breakout to IPL Stage
Mhatre’s IPL call-up came on the back of a phenomenal domestic season for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he amassed 458 runs in just 7 innings, including two centuries at a stellar strike rate of 135. These performances did not go unnoticed. His consistency, ability to accelerate, and temperament against quality attacks earned him praise from veterans and selectors alike.
Being included in Mumbai’s senior squad at just 17 — a team boasting names like Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, and Suryakumar Yadav — spoke volumes about his promise and maturity beyond his years.
Sehwag Comparisons and High-Profile Praise
Few compliments in Indian cricket carry more weight than being likened to Virender Sehwag — one of India’s most destructive and fearless openers. Yet, CSK legend Suresh Raina made that very comparison while speaking on JioHotstar commentary:
“Look at his feet, look at his head position. I remember Viru bhai (Virender Sehwag) had a very similar setup, where his head used to be very good,” said Raina, pointing out the similarities in Mhatre’s fearless approach and natural attacking instincts.
Raina didn’t stop there. He passionately backed Mhatre’s future in the yellow jersey, saying:
“This player is going to play for at least 10 years for CSK. He showed us in the last match — try out Mhatre, and you will get absolutely loyal and royal batting.”
Admiration from the Best: Rohit and SKY Take Note
It isn’t just the CSK camp that’s been impressed. Mhatre’s knock at the Wankhede Stadium in the Vijay Hazare Trophy brought him into the limelight, prompting admiration from Suryakumar Yadav and even Rohit Sharma, two stalwarts of Indian cricket.
“Suryakumar appreciated him when he made runs at the Wankhede Stadium, then Rohit Sharma also spoke to him after that,” revealed Raina, referencing a viral video of Rohit sharing words of encouragement with the teenager.
Such recognition early in a player’s career — particularly from icons like Rohit and SKY — signals Mhatre’s growing reputation in Indian cricketing circles.
A Lone Spark in CSK’s Struggles
Despite Mhatre’s enterprising start, CSK’s season has been far from ideal. In the clash against SRH, although his early aggression gave CSK a decent platform, his dismissal triggered a collapse, with CSK losing three wickets during the powerplay, leaving them once again scrambling for stability.
In a season marred by inconsistency, injuries, and underperformance, Mhatre’s emergence has offered a rare silver lining. His presence has injected enthusiasm into the CSK fanbase, who are eager for the franchise to rebuild around a new generation of stars.
Ayush Mhatre: Profile Snapshot
| Attribute | Details |
| Age | 17 |
| Team | Chennai Super Kings (IPL), Mumbai |
| IPL Role | Top-order Batsman |
| Batting Style | Right-handed Aggressive Opener |
| IPL Debut | 2025 (vs Mumbai Indians) |
| Domestic Breakthrough | Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 (458 runs, SR: 135) |
| Mentors & Supporters | Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav |
| Comparison | Virender Sehwag (by Raina) |
The Road Ahead
Ayush Mhatre’s early performances suggest that he is not just a temporary replacement, but a player for the future. As CSK looks ahead to rebuilding and regaining its dominance, talents like Mhatre will be central to the plan. With the backing of legends and the promise of youth, his journey is just beginning — and fans across India will be watching closely.
Could Ayush Mhatre be the next CSK icon? Only time will tell. But the signs are already glowing.
