The Chennai Super Kings have finalized Ayush Mhatre as the replacement for injured skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.
Gaikwad has been ruled out of the tournament due to an elbow fracture sustained during CSK’s clash against Rajasthan Royals on March 30.
CSK, who are struggling at the bottom of the points table with just one win in six matches, have opted for the 17-year-old Mumbai opener in hopes of reviving their campaign. Mhatre, who went unsold in the IPL auction despite a base price of Rs 30 lakh, is expected to join the squad in a couple of days.
According to sources close to the franchise, the decision was taken late on Saturday (April 13) after trials were conducted in Chennai. Mhatre was picked over other contenders such as Urvil Patel and Salman Nizar. Notably, Prithvi Shaw was also in consideration, but the team ultimately decided to go with Mhatre.
Earlier, former India opener Krishnamachari Srikkanth had backed Shaw as a potential replacement for Gaikwad, especially after CSK’s dismal performance against Kolkata Knight Riders where they were bundled out for just 103 – their lowest ever total at Chepauk.
Mhatre is seen as a rising star in Mumbai’s cricket circles. In nine first-class matches, he has scored 504 runs, including two centuries. In List A cricket, he has an impressive record with 458 runs from seven games. CSK hopes his inclusion brings fresh energy to their faltering top order.
CSK will next face Lucknow Super Giants in an away match on Monday, followed by a high-voltage clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede on April 20.