Ayush Mhatre smashed 59 runs from just 36 deliveries, but Chennai Super Kings (CSK) chose to take him off during the death overs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday. Mhatre, along with wicket-keeper batter Sanju Samson, built a commanding 113-run partnership for the second wicket before CSK replaced the U19 World Cup-winning captain with Shivam Dube. The move sparked an intense debate, with many questioning whether such a call could dent a young player’s confidence.
After the game, Mhatre addressed the substitution directly, explaining that he was finding it difficult to clear the boundary late in his innings. He also said the team’s plan was to bring in a batter capable of delivering the required impact in the final phase, which he felt made the decision sensible.
“There was nothing much. I was batting, and the team needed some big shots. Shivam also can hit big shots. I wasn’t really getting it going, so the team planned it that way. It happens in the game,” Mhatre said after the match on Star Sports.
In his second season with CSK, Mhatre further spoke about the environment inside the squad and the encouragement he has received from senior players, coaches, and the management. He said the support system has been a major factor in helping him realise his potential on the field.
“It’s very different and feels like a family for me. They treat me like a kid, so I really enjoy playing with them. The support staff is also helping a lot and working hard for us.”
How CSK Defeated DC
CSK’s victory was powered by a sensational century from Sanju Samson and a four-wicket spell by Jamie Overton, as the franchise registered its first win of IPL 2026 by beating DC by 23 runs at Chepauk. The result ended CSK’s home losing run of six matches. DC elected to bat first, but Samson’s unbeaten 115 off 56 balls, featuring 15 fours and four sixes, along with Mhatre’s 59 off 36 balls with three fours and four sixes, propelled CSK to 212/2 in their 20 overs.
In reply, Pathum Nissanka struck 41 off 24 balls, smashing five fours and two sixes, and shared a 62-run partnership with KL Rahul. Tristan Stubbs then delivered an aggressive 60 off 30 balls, but the chase stalled soon after. Overton (4/18) and Kamboj (3/35) kept taking wickets at regular intervals, preventing DC from building momentum and sealing the margin for CSK.
With the win, CSK sit ninth in the table, having collected one victory and suffered three defeats. DC are placed fourth, with two wins and two losses.
