Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) handling of youngster Ayush Mhatre during their clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The incident unfolded during CSK’s narrow 10-run defeat in Hyderabad, a result that added further pressure on a campaign still searching for consistency.

Mhatre, one of the few positives for CSK this season, walked out to bat with visible strapping on his knee and still managed to play a brisk innings. However, as his knock progressed, he appeared to be in significant discomfort, particularly while running between the wickets. Despite multiple visits from the team physio, he continued batting before eventually being dismissed for 30, with his struggle becoming one of the defining moments of the match.

“Ayush Mhatre’s injury, I hope he is back, but by the look of it, I fear he will be out for a while. While coming into bat, he came with a strap on his knee. For 2-3 matches, he has been playing as an Impact Sub. People are asking, ‘Why is he an Impact Player? Is he not a good fielder?’ His injury has been a concern,” said Ashwin on his YouTube channel.

“It couldn’t have been a cramp because he did not field at all. Even if he had gotten cramps even when not fielding, then we have to look at his hydration. Okay, it’s not a cramp. Let’s assume it was an injury. Your physios come in and checked him. He was limping badly, you are asking him to play another ball and making him run between wickets!,” he added.

Ashwin added that the call should have been made earlier, before the situation worsened, especially considering Mhatre’s importance to CSK’s campaign. The youngster has been one of CSK’s few bright spots this season, delivering key performances with the bat, including a well-made 59 against Delhi Capitals (DC) and a quick 38 versus Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

“I couldn’t understand. Should he have not retired out when he was limping? In this season. Ayush Mhatre has been one of the stars. I don’t understand how they can handle him so carelessly. I was shocked. Everyone in the commentary box kept their mic on the table and watched what was happening with complete shock. Very, very surprising,” said Ashwin.