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CSK's Bold Move: Madhwal Replaces Injured Mhatre
23 Apr
Summary
- Akash Madhwal replaces injured Ayush Mhatre for CSK in IPL 2026.
- Madhwal brings significant bowling experience with 61 T20 wickets.
- Mhatre's injury leaves CSK short of batting depth with other players also injured.

Chennai Super Kings has brought in Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who was ruled out of the IPL 2026 season due to a hamstring injury. The official announcement was made hours before CSK's match against the Mumbai Indians on April 23, 2026. Madhwal, a 32-year-old pacer, significantly strengthens CSK's bowling unit. He has an impressive T20 record with 61 wickets in 56 matches. His acquisition comes at a base price of ₹30 lakh, as he went unsold in the IPL 2026 auction.
Ayush Mhatre, an 18-year-old promising batter, scored 201 runs in six matches this season before his injury. His hamstring issue will require six to 12 weeks of rehabilitation. Mhatre's injury exacerbates CSK's personnel problems, as they have already lost Khaleel Ahmed and Nathan Ellis to injuries, with Spencer Johnson yet to play this season. The team management is considering options like MS Dhoni, Kartik Sharma, or Prashant Veer to fill Mhatre's spot in the playing XI.