The Indian Premier League never disappoints cricket fans with exciting talents like Ayush Mhatre, the 17-year-old batter who made his IPL debut for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) against Mumbai Indians (MI) tonight (April 20) with a flurry of big hits. 

CSK cashed in for the young lad in place of their injured captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad. The 5-time IPL-winning side took their time to make the final call about Gaikwad's replacement. For now it seems like the management has chosen the right card. Mhatre took no time to prove his mettle as he thrashed back over the boundaries after going for a well-powered four. 

The early departure of Rachin Ravindra pushed CSK into the backseat until Ayush Mhatre came into the field as the number 3 batter. The right-handed cricketer provided the spark CSK was searching for from the beginning of IPL 2025. 

Read More: IPL 2025: Virat Kohli's intense celebration left fans stunned after run-out Nehal Wadhera

Ashwani Kumar, another Mumbai Indians' talent factory product, was on song when Mhatre took his stance. Then CSK was at 16 in 3.1 overs, with a loss of one wicket. Ayush instantly applied the well-known philosophy— attack is the best defense. 

Mhatre did his job exceptionally well

The first 6 came out from a well-timed cheap, and in the following delivery, a well-rehearsed pull shot for the second consecutive maximum. The MI pacer started off over with the wicket of Ravindra and concluded with 4, 6, and 6. 

Watch the video here: 

𝙁𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙣𝙩 🤩

How about that for a start 🔥

Ayush Mhatre's #TATAIPL career is up and away in some fashion 💛#CSK 52/1 after 6 overs.

Updates ▶ https://t.co/v2k7Y5sIdi#MIvCSK | @ChennaiIPL pic.twitter.com/UVvmdWotvY

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 20, 2025

Mhatre's stormy innings came to an end after a 32-run knock, playing 15 balls, strike rate 213.33. He successfully boosted up the run rate CSK required most with four boundaries and two over boundaries.

In a surprising turn of events during Match 38 of IPL 2025 between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK), experienced batter Rahul Tripathi was missing from the playing XI. His absence raised several questions among fans and experts, considering his consistent performances and value at the top of the order. Tripathi’s dynamic style and ability to build innings have made him a crucial asset for his team, and many were puzzled by his sudden omission from such a crucial fixture.

Team sources have clarified that Tripathi is currently dealing with a minor niggle sustained during a practice session before the match. The decision to rest him was made purely as a precaution to avoid worsening the issue, especially with important games lined up in the coming weeks. While not a serious injury, the management chose to prioritize his long-term fitness and availability over the risk of aggravation in the high-stakes encounter.

Tripathi’s absence could be felt in the top-order strategy, as his experience and stability often provide a strong platform for the innings. Fans are hopeful for a swift recovery, as his presence becomes increasingly important with the tournament heading toward the business end. His return is eagerly awaited, and the team will be banking on him to come back stronger, just in time for the playoff push.

Also read: IPL 2025: Sundar Pichai’s message to Vaibhav Suryavanshi sparks buzz: Know what he said

Tripathi makes way for Ayush Mhatre

Mumbai’s 17-year-old batting sensation, Ayush Mhatre, is all set to make his IPL debut, replacing the out-of-form Rahul Tripathi. Mhatre, known for his naturally aggressive style, was brought in as an injury replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad earlier in the season. Tripathi has managed just 55 runs from five matches in IPL 2025, with a poor strike rate of 96.50. In contrast, Mumbai Indians have opted to retain their winning XI otherwise, showing confidence in their current combination. The decision to bench Tripathi appears to be a calculated move by the team management, aimed at injecting more aggression into the top order. With the playoff race intensifying, Mhatre’s fearless batting could offer Mumbai the edge in pressure situations. His inclusion not only brings youthful energy but also a fresh approach, which could disrupt opposition plans and provide a spark at the top.

MI are focused on momentum and are willing to take bold calls to keep their playoff hopes alive. As for Rahul Tripathi, this break from the playing XI may serve as an opportunity to reset and regain form. A seasoned campaigner, Tripathi’s experience and composure can still be crucial assets later in the tournament. Whether he returns to solidify the middle order or steps in as a reliable anchor during key games, the team is likely to keep him in consideration. For now, though, the spotlight firmly rests on young Mhatre and his much-anticipated IPL debut.

Chennai Super Kings surprised everyone by picking 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre for their match against Mumbai Indians on Sunday (April 20) at the Wankhede Stadium. Ayush plays domestic cricket for Mumbai and joined CSK recently as a replacement for their captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is injured. Even though he is very young, just 17 years and 278 days old, Ayush was given a chance to bat at number 3 for CSK. He replaced Rahul Tripathi in the playing eleven and is now the youngest player ever to debut for CSK in the IPL.

CSK usually goes with experienced players, but this time they trusted a young talent. Ayush’s selection shows the team is ready to try something new in a big match. Ayush made his debut in first-class cricket for Mumbai during the Irani Cup in 2024-25. In nine matches, he has scored 504 runs with an average of 31.50, including two centuries. He has also played seven List A matches and scored two more centuries.

ALSO SEE: [WATCH] IPL 2025: Virat Kohli trolls Shreyas Iyer after RCB's thrilling win over PBKS

Ayush Mhatre’s Cricket Journey So Far

At the IPL 2025 auction, Ayush had a base price of ₹30 lakh but was not picked by any team. Later, CSK called him for trials and liked his attacking batting style. They signed him for the same amount after Gaikwad’s injury. He also did well in the Under-19 Asia Cup recently, scoring 176 runs in five matches with a strike rate of 135.38In the Navi Mumbai T20, he hit a 21-ball half-century, indicating his power-hitting ability.

Contrariwise, the Mumbai Indians have made a single substitution. Fast bowler Ashwani Kumar plays in place of injured spinner Karn Sharma. Ashwani came with an impressive debut this season, picking 4 wickets and earning the Player of the Match award. Ayush Mhatre, a big fan of Rohit Sharma, will now play against his hometown team in one of the biggest matches of his young career. CSK fans will be hoping he plays a good knock and helps the team win at Wankhede.

Mumbai’s Young Star Ayush Mhatre Joins CSK Training Camp

Mumbai teenager Ayush Mhatre has been invited by the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to train with their nets in Chennai. This is a huge chance for the 17-year-old opener, who impressed in domestic cricket last year.

A Star in the Making in Domestic Cricket
Mhatre appeared in nine first-class games last season and scored 504 runs with two hundreds. His solid batting rendered him one of the best young guns in Mumbai cricket. With his impressive performance, he got picked for National Cricket Academy (NCA) Under-19 zonal camp in Rajkot.

Mumbai's future Superstar Ayush Mhatre has been called to CSK mid-season Trials. [Gaurav Gupta from TOI] pic.twitter.com/BnesXLu2H4

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 3, 2025

Also read: 'King Kohli or Swing Kohli?' - Fans troll RCB star batter after dismal outing against Gujarat Titans
Call from Chennai Super Kings
Having done his NCA camp, Mhatre will be going to Chennai to attend CSK's training camp. It a valuable chance for entering the francise of the ipl a golden chance

Future Prospects
In the ipl 2025 he has not selected but he in training section section with csk it isa golden opportunity for intake in ipl

• Next Match: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Delhi Capitals (DC)
• Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
• Venue: M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
• Time: 3:30 PM IST