Ayush Mhatre Joins CSK: IPL 2025’s Rising Star

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed 17-year-old Mumbai opener Ayush Mhatre to replace injured captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is out of IPL 2025 with a fractured elbow.The franchise had earlier invited Mhatre for trials to assess his batting in the nets and then decided to bring him into the squad following Gaikwad’s unfortunate injury.

A Relentless Journey From Virar to the IPL

Ayush Mhatre hails from Virar, which is located 46 kilometers from downtown Mumbai. Like many aspiring cricketers from the city, he put in years of disciplined training. He woke up at 4:15 AM, caught the 5 AM train, and headed to Oval Maidan for morning practice. His work ethic and commitment stood out early.

“I started to play when I was 6, but my real cricket started when I was 10,” Mhatre said in an earlier interview. “I got admission in Don Bosco High School in Matunga, and it was my grandfather Laxmikant Naik (Nana) who took the responsibility to take me there every day.”

In addition, he practiced in Churchgate after school, dedicating his entire day to cricket. What’s more, he often practiced twice daily—something only the most serious young players are known to do.

Early Recognition and Domestic Brilliance

Mhatre’s aggressive batting and fearless temperament earned him early recognition. At just 13 years old, his club Virar-Sainath Sports Club promoted him to their senior team, where he competed against much older players. His maturity and skill quickly made him a standout.

He made his first-class debut for Mumbai in the Irani Trophy against the Rest of India and has since played nine first-class games, scoring two centuries and a half-century. Moreover, in List A cricket, he struck an impressive 181 against Nagaland and 148 against Saurashtra in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He also became the youngest player to score 150-plus in men’s List A cricket earlier this year.

Support System Behind the Scenes

Mhatre’s journey was never smooth, yet his family ensured he never felt the pressure. His father Yogesh once lost his job, yet the young cricketer was never made to feel the pinch. “My father and mother never made me realize that there is some financial problem at home. Like if a bat is broken, then I didn’t ask for a new one,” he shared.

Besides emotional support, his father still accompanies him on local train rides to matches. “Even today, my father travels with me on the local train so that if any verbal fight happens with someone, he will handle it, so that I don’t take any negativity when I’m going to bat.”

His grandfather, a retired railway employee, was also a constant presence in his formative years. In addition, Mhatre credits his admission to Don Bosco and consistent training routines in Matunga and Churchgate as pivotal moments in his development.

Grounded and Focused Ahead of IPL Debut

Mhatre is a Rohit Sharma fan, and like his idol, he prefers to let his bat do the talking. He has cut himself off from social media since last season. “My family has told me to keep things simple, and I’m listening,” he said with quiet determination.

Next Chapter Begins with CSK

Now, with his selection in one of the IPL’s most iconic franchises, Mhatre is taking his biggest step yet. Although it is not yet clear whether he will be part of the playing XI immediately, his inclusion in the squad is a statement of belief in young Indian talent.

Moreover, CSK’s decision reflects its long-standing tradition of nurturing future stars. Finally, from the dusty maidans of Mumbai to the grand stage of the IPL, Ayush Mhatre’s story proves that relentless effort, family support, and raw talent can turn dreams into reality.