Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has invited Mumbai’s 17-year-old opener Ayush Mhatre for trials at Chepauk. As a result, speculation is growing that he might join the squad as a replacement for IPL 2025. However, he can only enter the team if a player gets injured or becomes unavailable.
Mhatre’s Journey So Far
Mhatre went unsold in the IPL mega auction last November in Jeddah. Nevertheless, CSK’s talent scouts have been closely monitoring his progress. Currently, he is training at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy's zonal camp for Under-19 players in Rajkot. Even so, he traveled to Chennai for the trial, hoping to secure a spot.
CSK Confirms Trial but No Immediate Signing
CSK MD & CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed the trial. He stated, "Yes, we’ve called him for trials. He has impressed our talent scouts." When asked about injuries in the squad, he clarified, "No, if there’s any need, we’ll do that. We’re not picking anybody, it’s just a trial." Thus, for now, Mhatre’s selection remains uncertain.
CSK’s Continued Interest in Mhatre
Interestingly, this is not the first time CSK has shown interest in Mhatre. They had previously invited him for trials in November last year, just before the IPL auction. Therefore, if CSK needs a replacement, he could still have a chance to make his IPL debut.