IPL 2026: CSK sign MI star as Ayush Mhatre's replacement ahead of MI vs CSK clash

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have faced a massive list of injuries, with two members of the playing eleven getting ruled out for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The five-time champions won’t have their number three batter, Ayush Mhatre, and the left-arm pacer, Khaleel Ahmed, both of whom have contributed decently.

Meanwhile, the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led have prepared themselves for the upcoming fixture against their arch-rivals, the Mumbai Indians, on April 23 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Currently, they remain at the eighth position of the points table with two victories in six clashes at a net run rate of -0.780.

CSK signs Akash Madhwal as Ayush Mhatre’s replacement in IPL 2026

The yellow franchise has signed up the fast bowler, Akash Madhwal, as the replacement of Mhatre, who has been out of the campaign with a hamstring injury. The highest run-getter of the side in this season picked up the injury four days ago while featuring against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. 

Madhwal joins CSK for a base price of INR 30 lakh. The skiddy right-arm pacer from Uttarakhand burst into the scene three years ago when he picked up 14 wickets in eight games with Mumbai at an economy rate of 8.58. He was retained by the side but failed to replicate the same golden performances, when he bagged five wickets in as many games in 2024.

See Also: SA20 2025/26 shatters records as viewership in India sees massive surge

After being released by Mumbai, Madhwal was picked by Rajasthan Royals for a price of INR 1.20 crore, but managed just four wickets in four games. That was the reason for his not getting a team in the 2026 auction before being part of the practice session of MI.

The right-arm pacer attended the Kolkata Knight Riders trials after Harshit Rana and Akash Deep were ruled out. His best figures of 5/5 came against Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2023 eliminator at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

CSK aims for better results despite long list of injuries

Madhwal comes into the CSK side that has been hit hard by injuries. Their most successful captain, MS Dhoni, is yet to play a game due to a calf strain. Their international pacer, Nathan Ellis, has been out of action for the entire season due to a hamstring injury.

Ellis’ replacement, Spencer Johnson, has made his way back from injury and will be part of the starting XI against MI. It has been a tough start for the side, who will travel back home for their first afternoon clash of the season against the Gujarat Titans (GT).