Chennai Super Kings have suffered a significant blow ahead of the business end of IPL 2026, with batter Ayush Mhatre ruled out after a hamstring injury. The franchise confirmed the decision on Tuesday, marking another setback for a squad already dealing with multiple fitness issues.
Quick facts
- Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 due to a left hamstring injury.
- The injury was sustained while batting against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18.
- CSK said the rehabilitation window is 6 to 12 weeks.
- Mhatre posted an emotional message to CSK fans on social media, promising to return stronger.
- His absence comes after earlier injury exclusions for Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis.
- MS Dhoni has also not featured yet due to a calf injury from a pre-season practice session.
Mhatre, who captained India to U19 World Cup glory, used social media to address CSK supporters following the diagnosis. In an Instagram caption, he expressed disappointment at missing out on contributing for the side in IPL 2026, while pledging to return stronger after rehabilitation.
He also took time to acknowledge the backing he has received and sent good wishes for the rest of the tournament. “Wishing the team all the best for the rest of the season. Thanks for all the yellove and support,” he added, alongside photos from his stint with CSK during the campaign.
What CSK said
CSK’s official update stated that Mhatre will miss the remainder of the season because of a left hamstring injury incurred while he was batting against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18. The franchise put the recovery timeline at 6–12 weeks and wished him a speedy return.
With Mhatre now sidelined, CSK’s injury list continues to grow. The batter becomes the third player from the squad to be ruled out this season, joining bowlers Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis.
CSK’s concerns are not limited to Mhatre’s case either. Former captain MS Dhoni has yet to appear in the tournament as he continues his recovery from a calf issue suffered during a pre-season practice session.
Before the injury struck, Mhatre had been one of CSK’s most reliable performers. Across six matches, he amassed 201 runs at an average of 33.50, striking at 177.88, and finishing as the team’s leading run-scorer in the competition so far.
CSK’s recent results have added further pressure to their campaign. Their latest outing ended in a 10-run loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, a defeat that saw them slide to seventh place in the points table with four points from six matches.
With another selection headache now looming, CSK will next face Mumbai Indians on Thursday. They will be hoping to arrest the slump and steady their squad balance despite the growing fitness setbacks.
