IPL 2026: Five Key Players Tipped to Replace Injured Ayush Mhatre in Chennai Super Kings
POLICY WIRE — Chennai, India — The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing a significant squad challenge as top-order batsman Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2026 season....
POLICY WIRE — Chennai, India — The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing a significant squad challenge as top-order batsman Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2026 season.
Mhatre sustained a left hamstring injury during the April 18 match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, adding to a growing list of injury concerns plaguing the five-time champions this campaign.
The team has already grappled with multiple setbacks, including veteran captain MS Dhoni dealing with a calf strain, pacer Khaleel Ahmed sidelined by a Grade 2 quadriceps tear, and Nathan Ellis being unavailable.
With the tournament at its halfway mark, Mhatre’s absence further strains CSK’s squad depth. The franchise must now swiftly identify and sign replacements to maintain their recently recaptured momentum throughout the demanding season.
Potential Replacements for CSK
Deepak Hooda: The Experienced All-Rounder
One prominent name being considered is Deepak Hooda, an all-rounder who went unsold in the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Hooda brings valuable IPL experience and middle-order versatility, having previously been part of the Chennai Super Kings setup in IPL 2025.
Despite a difficult 2025 season where he managed just 31 runs in seven appearances after being acquired for ₹1.70 crore, his proven track record makes him a practical and immediate option for the franchise.
Swastik Chikara: The Aggressive Opener
Swastik Chikara, a right-handed opening batsman from Uttar Pradesh, stands out as a strong contender and is currently a free agent. Renowned for his aggressive approach during the Powerplay, Chikara could provide the much-needed impetus at the top of the order.
In March 2026, he captured widespread attention by smashing an unbeaten 195 runs off only 69 balls for Gomti Thunder in the Ayodhya Premier League. Furthermore, Chikara was part of Royal Challengers Bangalore’s title-winning squad in IPL 2025, though he did not feature in any matches.
Atharva Taide: The Captain with Form
Another promising player who missed out in the IPL 2026 auction is Atharva Taide. The captain of Vidarbha recently guided his team to their inaugural Vijay Hazare Trophy title, delivering a match-winning century (128 runs) in the final against Saurashtra.
Having previously represented franchises like Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Taide offers a blend of stability and leadership, making him an attractive prospect for CSK.
Manan Vohra: The Domestic Veteran
Experienced top-order batsman Manan Vohra is also available as a free agent, having gone unsold in the 2026 auction. While not participating in the current IPL season, Vohra has maintained exceptional form and activity on the Indian domestic circuit as captain of Chandigarh.
In March 2026, he achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 10,000 runs in domestic cricket across all formats. His consistent performance could substantially reinforce CSK’s top-order batting.
Ensuring adequate squad depth is crucial for any team’s success in a long tournament. Aberdeen FC Fortifies Squad with Findlay Marshall Extension Amidst Premiership Survival Battle.
Yash Dhull: The Long-Term Prospect
Yash Dhull presents another compelling option for Chennai Super Kings. After being overlooked in the 2026 auction, Dhull has diligently worked his way back to peak form following major heart surgery in 2024.
A prolific performer in domestic cricket, his IPL exposure has been limited to just four matches with Delhi Capitals, where he scored 16 runs. However, Dhull possesses immense potential and could represent a strategic long-term investment for CSK as an injury replacement.
