The 2025 Indian Premier League has again proven to be the platform it has been known for a springboard for the future stars of cricket. The season has produced some of the brightest young hopes, and there are three whose light shines above the rest Punjab Kings’ Priyansh Arya, Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Suryavanshi, and Chennai Super Kings’ 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre. With Ruturaj Gaikwad ruled out for the season after suffering a fractured elbow, Chennai pounced on the chance and drafted Mhatre into the team in his place.
MS Dhoni Appreciated Ayush Mhatre
“Ayush was happy with his innings, but wanted to win the game as CSK were very close to beating RCB. But after the game, Ayush had an interaction with the legendary Dhoni, and was extremely thrilled,” said Yogesh.
Ayush Mhatre’s father also mentioned that MS Dhoni praised his son’s knock against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
“Dhoni calmly said to Ayush, ‘Well played. Aage isi tarah achha karte rehna hai’ [in future you have to keep performing well just like this]. It may have been just a few words but, coming from Dhoni, who Ayush respects immensely, the words mean a lot. It felt that Dhoni was showing belief in Ayush’s ability by entrusting him with an important responsibility going forward.”
Ayush Mhatre’s Father Urges Caution
Despite the growing buzz, Ayush’s father, Yogesh Mhatre, is urging fans and media alike not to get carried away. He believes that early success can often lead to unnecessary pressure. “There’s no need for him to chase or emulate others,” he said, referencing Suryavanshi’s iconic ton. “Every player’s journey is unique, and Ayush still has a long way to go.”
“Ayush And Vaibhav Are Two Different Batsmen”
“I’ve told Ayush that he and Vaibhav are two very different batsmen and that if someone compares him with Vaibhav, he should not keep that in mind. I have also told him not to try to imitate Vaibhav or look to score a century like him. I believe there is absolutely no need for Ayush to take any pressure upon himself and try to do big things. He has a long way to go,” Yogesh told Mid-Day.
A Good Beginning, Then a Breakthrough Innings
Mhatre’s initial two appearances, scoring 32 and 30, provided an indication of what he might become. However, in match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the MA Chidambaram Stadium he exhibited impeccable strokeplay, as he hit 94 runs off mere 48 deliveries, including 9 fours and 5 sixes. His contribution took CSK to a respectable 214, although RCB snatched victory by 2-run difference.
Comparisons With Suryavanshi, But Mhatre Stays Grounded
While Mhatre’s near-century turned heads, it was still slightly overshadowed by Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s record-breaking hundred and Priyansh Arya’s explosive 103 against CSK, followed by a blazing 69 against KKR. Naturally, comparisons between the young guns have begun to surface.
