Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed right-arm fast bowler Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. Madhwal, who has previously played for Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals, brings valuable IPL experience to the CSK squad.
Madhwal has played 17 IPL matches, picking up 23 wickets. His most memorable performance came during his debut season with Mumbai Indians in 2023, when he took a spectacular five-wicket haul of 5/5 in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants. He also played for Rajasthan Royals in 2025 before joining CSK for the 2026 season.
Ayush Mhatre, India's Under-19 World Cup-winning captain, had made a strong start to the season for CSK. He scored two half-centuries in six matches before suffering a left hamstring injury while batting against Sunrisers Hyderabad. His absence is a significant blow to the CSK batting lineup.
Madhwal joins CSK for a fee of Rs 30 lakh as the franchise looks to reinforce its squad for the remainder of the tournament. The move comes ahead of the high-voltage IPL 2026 'El Clasico' between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, scheduled for 23 April 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium.
Both five-time champions are currently struggling in the bottom half of the points table, each with two wins from six matches. Mumbai Indians hold seventh place due to a superior Net Run Rate, while CSK sits eighth. Mumbai Indians enter the game with major confidence after a massive 99-run demolition of the Gujarat Titans, powered by Tilak Varma's century. CSK, on the other hand, is grappling with injuries and inconsistent form. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is struggling, with only 82 runs this season, while key opener Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out.
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