CSK
While the 2025 IPL season turned out to be a forgettable chapter in Chennai Super Kings’ storied legacy, it also gave birth to a glowing prospect for the future in the name of 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre. Despite CSK enduring one of their poorest seasons, Mhatre’s fearless batting and natural flair have offered fans and team management a reason to smile, and more importantly, a reason to hope.
When Mhatre walks out to bat, there’s an air of confidence and style that instantly reminds cricket lovers of Virender Sehwag. From the moment he made his debut against Mumbai Indians, scoring 32 off 15 balls, Ayush showed he wasn’t just another youngster he was here to make an impact. His next match against Sunrisers Hyderabad produced a breezy 30 off 19, but it was against Royal Challengers Bengaluru that he truly arrived.
Blazing his way to 94 off just 48 balls, Mhatre stunned the crowd. His knock, laced with 9 fours and 5 sixes, was a mix of elegant timing and fearless aggression. It wasn’t just the runs, it was how he made them that caught everyone’s attention.
Following his innings, Virender Sehwag remarked on his approach, saying, “He played the ball on its merit. That cutter could have been a six had it hit the middle. He’s got the instinct.” Even MS Dhoni, CSK’s legendary captain, didn’t hold back, calling him a 'champion'
Stephen Fleming, CSK’s head coach, added, “He was comfortable from day one. More than the shots, it’s his temperament and poise under pressure that impresses me the most.”
Ayush Mhatre might just be the foundation for CSK’s rebuild in coming seasons. At 17, he has already shown glimpses of greatness. In a year to forget for the Super Kings, he has ensured that the future looks far from bleak.
Sometimes, even the darkest seasons bring forward the brightest stars — and for CSK, Ayush Mhatre is that rising light.