[Watch]: CSK’s Ayush Mhatre Giving Interview at Six, Batting Like a Pro

The clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) is always a spectacle. The energy, the rivalry, and the roaring Mumbai crowd set the stage ablaze. And when 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre stepped onto the lush green outfield of Wankhede Stadium to face the Mumbai Indians in an IPL game, the script couldn’t have been more poetic.

Who is Ayush Mhatre?

Hailing from Mumbai, this right-handed batsman has already notched up impressive numbers for someone his age. Behind every rising star is a family that fuels the dream. For Ayush, that person was his grandfather, Laxmikant Naik. From ferrying him to practice grounds to guiding him through the emotional waves of a young cricketer’s journey, his “Nana” has been the real MVP. Ayush wasn’t handed his CSK debut on a silver platter. He grinded it out in the domestic scene. With 9 first-class games and 7 List A appearances, he’s no stranger to competitive cricket.

Love for the Game Since Age Six

Believe it or not, there’s video proof of Ayush swinging a bat when he was just six years old. In a clip, you can see the spark in his eyes and the silence of a focused mind. “We saw his talent early,” his grandfather shared. “Whether he becomes something big was destiny, but pushing him was our duty.”

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Mhatre’s grandfather Laxmikant Naik replies: “We saw his talent with the bat. We thought whether he becomes something big in the sport or not is a matter of destiny. But it is our duty to push him. We sent him to Vengsarkar Cricket Academy because who hasn’t heard his name? He was a legend before Sachin Tendulkar became one. So we thought we should send him to work under someone of that stature. Ayush has the talent to grow rapidly if he learns from the best.”

Back in 2014, Ayush was just another kid practicing on Mumbai’s maidans. Under the tutelage of coaches at the Vengsarkar Cricket Academy, he evolved. That viral video where he barely said more than one word? It now feels like a teaser of something greater.

The Unexpected IPL Call-Up

Ayush Mhatre has built an impressive record through sheer consistency. In First-Class cricket, he has notched two centuries and a half-century, while in List A matches, he has delivered standout performances, including a high score of 181 against Nagaland. His 148-run knock against Saurashtra in the Vijay Hazare Trophy further cements his reputation as a dependable batter. These aren’t mere flashes of brilliance—they are the results of dedicated effort and continuous improvement.

When Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury, CSK faced a crucial decision—should they opt for experience or take a leap of faith on a young talent? In a bold move, they placed their trust in Ayush Mhatre, recognizing his potential to make an impact at the highest level. Many expected Rahul Tripathi to be in the Playing XI. But in a tactical move, the management chose Ayush instead, perhaps betting on the emotional edge and homeground advantage.

The Debut Innings: 32 off 15

Ayush didn’t waste time. Walking in under pressure, he unleashed a quickfire 32 runs off just 15 balls. He looked calm, calculated, and completely at home. His innings was cut short by Deepak Chahar, but by then, Ayush had already made his mark. His confident strokeplay, footwork, and ability to find the gaps had everyone talking.

“I started to play when I was 6 but my real cricket started when I was 10,” Mhatre had told The Indian Express last year. “I got admission in Don Bosco High School in Matunga and it was my grandfather Laxmikant Naik (Nana) who took the responsibility to take me there every day. So in the morning, I used to go for practice in Matunga, attend school, and then go to Churchgate to attend another practice. My family used to tell my grandfather not to ruin my sleep but now, they too feel that my sacrifice is paying off.”

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