Ayush Mhatre at the Wankhede (Source: AP Photos)
Ayush Mhatre, the 17-year-old batter is all set to make his debut for Chennai Super Kings against Mumbai Indians. He is the youngest-ever debutant for CSK in IPL history, and came in as a late replacement of Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Ayush Mhatre Becomes Youngest-Ever Debutant For CSK
His base price in IPL 2025 auction was 30 Lakhs, but he went unsold at that time. Now, he has been brought into the CSK squad for the same price after his consistent performances for Mumbai. Ayush Mhatre also did well in the U19 Asia Cup recently, and is known for his power-hitting which he would like to display in his debut game.
Ayush Mhatre has not played for Mumbai in T20 format, but recently smashed a 21-ball fifty in the Navi Mumbai T20. He was impressive in the U19 Asia Cup, and scored 176 runs in five innings at a strike-rate of 135.38 and at an average of 44. He has two centuries each in first-class and List A cricket for Mumbai.
Thus, in a short career, Ayush Mhatre has shown intent as well as consistency, and would be itching to prove a point on the big stage. He will bat at number 3, and CSK fans would be hoping that he turns on the heat and take them to a much-needed victory against MI at the Wankhede Cricket Stadium.