Transfer News: Ayush Mhatre Joins CSK as Ruturaj Gaikwad's Replacement
Ayush Mhatre is CSK's young seamer for the IPL 2025 season
Lorna
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have secured 17-year-old Mumbai opener Ayush Mhatre as a replacement for injured captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
This article explores Mhatre's rise to IPL and the impact of Gaikwad’s absence on CSK. For more details onIPL 2025 transfer news, follow BRG365.
Transfer News: Ayush Mhatre Joins CSK(BRG365)
Ayush Mhatre Joins CSK
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a surprise move in April 2025 by signing 17-year-old Mumbai opener Ayush Mhatre as a replacement for injured captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Mhatre, who was unsold at the IPL auction earlier, comes in after Gaikwad suffered a hairline fracture to his elbow.
The young star will now fill a crucial gap in CSK's squad for the rest of IPL 2025.
Transfer Details
Player: Ayush Mhatre
Age: 17
Position: Opener, also bowls off-spin
Transfer Fee: INR 30 lakh
Replacement For: Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ayush Mhatre shines in domestic cricket, notably scoring 181 off 117 balls vs Nagaland in List-A cricket—setting a world record as the youngest men's senior player to hit 150+.
His early success earned him a spot in India's U-19 squad and CSK's attention.
CSK bowling consultant Eric Simons praised his fearless, adaptable style, saying, "Mhatre fits our aggressive yet controlled approach perfectly.
His ability to attack while staying in control makes him a thrilling addition."
Domestic Cricket Stats
Statistical Category
List A
First-Class
Matches
7
9
Innings
7
16
Runs
458
504
Average
65.42
31.5
Strike Rate
135.5
-
Highest Score
181
176
Centuries
2
2
Wickets
7
-
CSK’s Current Struggles
Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK's captain and star batsman, was initially leading the team in IPL 2025, but his injury has forced him to step aside.
His absence has left a significant hole in the batting lineup, especially considering his form last season when he contributed 575 runs.
As of now, MS Dhoni has taken over the captaincy, marking his return to the role since the 2023 IPL final.
Gaikwad's Injury
Injury: Elbow hairline fracture
Impact: Misses the entire IPL 2025 season
Replacement Captain: MS Dhoni
CSK’s current position in IPL 2025 has been challenging, as they have lost four consecutive matches and are ranked ninth on the points table with just two wins.
Gaikwad expressed his disappointment, noting that it was tough to miss the rest of the season, but he remains hopeful that Dhoni can turn things around for the team.
Mhatre’s Potential Impact
Ayush Mhatre(BRG365)
Mhatre, despite lacking T20 experience, made an immediate impact on his debut, scoring 32 runs off 15 balls against Mumbai Indians in his first-ever T20 match.
His aggressive style could help CSK recover from their recent slump.
His addition also provides much-needed depth in the batting lineup, which is especially crucial with Gaikwad’s absence.
CSK’s Transfer Moves
This move highlights CSK’s willingness to make key transfer decisions even mid-tournament, showing their adaptability and intent to remain competitive.
The signing of Mhatre also points towards CSK’s focus on nurturing young talent, which could benefit them in future seasons.
The transfer news around Mhatre’s unexpected call-up demonstrates how a club can act quickly and decisively in times of injury crisis.
As CSK aims to bounce back from a challenging start to IPL 2025, the addition of Ayush Mhatre provides a new spark.
While his transition into T20 cricket will be watched closely, his recent form and ability to adapt to different formats could make him an invaluable asset for CSK.
With MS Dhoni now leading the team, fans are hoping for a revival in the team’s fortunes.
Lorna, a Sports editor from BRG365, graduated from UNIL. I has worked as a commentator in Sports Illustrated for five years, already coveraging on the UEFA Cup, Serie A and the Club World Cup.
