In a devastating update for Chennai Super Kings fans, explosive opener Aayush Mhatre is sidelined for the rest of IPL 2026 after suffering a serious hamstring injury. The 22-year-old, who has lit up the tournament with his aggressive strokeplay, will miss 6-12 weeks of action, confirming his exit from the competition.
The injury struck during CSK’s clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18. Mhatre, looking in fine form, suddenly grabbed his left hamstring mid-innings. He soldiered on briefly after treatment but was eventually stretchered off with physio assistance. Scans on Monday painted a grim picture.
Currently languishing in eighth place with a 4-2 record, CSK relied heavily on Mhatre’s 201 runs – the highest in the squad – boasting two fifties at 33.50 average. His departure leaves a gaping hole in the top order.
CSK’s injury crisis deepens: Khalil Ahmed is already out, MS Dhoni unavailable, pre-season loss of Nathan Ellis, and Dewald Brevis’ early absence. The team now eyes replacements amid a tough fixture list.
Next up, Mumbai Indians on April 23, followed by Gujarat Titans (April 26), another MI showdown (May 2), back-to-back against Lucknow Super Giants (May 10, 15), SRH on May 18, and GT again on May 21. Can CSK regroup without their leading light?
