Big trouble for CSK! Ayush Mhatre’s absence from some matches confirmed, two names shortlisted for Khalil Ahmed’s replacement

New Delhi: Ayush Mhatre is going to be out of the next few matches of Chennai Super Kings due to a hamstring injury suffered during the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. According to the Cricbuzz report, Mhatre will be scanned on Monday to know how serious his injury is, which will decide his further participation in the tournament. Batting at number 3, Mhatre was looking in good form in that match, but while trying to take a quick second run, he was seen holding his left hamstring. He needed treatment on the field twice before being dismissed and on his way back, Ramakrishna Ghosh and physio Tommy Simsek helped him off the field.

After the match, batting coach Michael Hussey said that it was clearly a hamstring tear, but he did not yet know how serious it was. He said that he will be scanned tomorrow or the next day and unfortunately the injury looks quite serious. Hussey described Mhatre as a big loss for the team as he was in very good form, but also said that it would give an opportunity to another player who could be exciting for the team.

Akash Madhavan and Hungergekar reached for trial

Chennai Super Kings’ next match will be against Mumbai Indians on 23 April at Wankhede Stadium. The team is also looking for a replacement for Khaleel Ahmed, who has been ruled out of the tournament due to a leg muscle injury. In this connection, former Mumbai Indians bowler Akash Madhwal took part in CSK’s trials in Hyderabad, while Rajvardhan Hungergekar is reported to have given trials in Mumbai.

CSK team has reached Mumbai for its next match and MS Dhoni is also with the team. However, the situation is still not clear on the return of the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman. Dhoni has not played all the matches of IPL 2026 so far due to calf strain. On Dhoni’s return, Hussey said that he is making good progress in his recovery and he is happy with his batting. According to Hussey, the main challenge is regarding Dhoni’s running because he will need to run fast to bat at the end of the innings, for which he will have to work on his confidence and speed.