CSK Secure Akash Madhwal as Replacement Signing for Mhatre

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have brought in Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the TATA IPL 2026 due to injury. The young batter sustained a left hamstring injury during Match 27 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, cutting short what had been a promising campaign.

Madhwal, a right-arm pacer, returns to the IPL after previous stints with Mumbai Indians (2023, 2024) and Rajasthan Royals (2025). He has played 17 matches in the league, picking up 23 wickets, including a remarkable five-wicket haul of 5/5 during his debut season for Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator against Lucknow Super Giants.

Mhatre, who captained India to the U19 World Cup title, had made a strong impression this season with two half-centuries in six appearances before his injury setback.