Chennai, April 12 (NationPress) Ayush Mhatre, a batter for Chennai Super Kings, acknowledged that he 'struggled to find his rhythm' at a crucial moment when the team required runs during their 23-run victory against Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. He expressed his acceptance of the strategy that led to his retirement out.

Mhatre scored 59 runs off 36 balls—marking his second fifty of the season—featuring three boundaries and four sixes. He formed a solid 113-run partnership with centurion Sanju Samson before being retired out to allow Shivam Dube to step in, who contributed a quick 20 runs off 10 balls, including two fours and a six, helping CSK reach an impressive score of 212/2.

“There wasn't much to it. I was at the crease when the team needed some explosive shots. Shivam is also capable of hitting big. I wasn't able to get going, so the team made that decision. It’s part of the game. This CSK squad feels different and like a family to me. They treat me like a younger sibling, which makes playing with them enjoyable. The support staff is incredibly dedicated and is doing a fantastic job for us,” Mhatre shared during an interview with JioStar.

Mhatre is now among the six players to have been retired out in IPL history, joining the ranks of Ravichandran Ashwin, Atharva Taide, B Sai Sudharsan, Tilak Varma, and Devon Conway. 2026 has been a remarkable year for him, having led India to victory in the 2026 Men’s U19 World Cup after gaining recognition through his performances for CSK in IPL 2025 as a replacement for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad.

“While the Asia Cup was taking place, I was also aware of the auction happening simultaneously. It would have been fantastic to be selected, but even if I wasn't, I had my focus set on the Asia Cup. Things unfold for a reason,” he explained.

“I was at the NCA when I received a call from CSK, asking to see me in the nets. I attended a two-day camp with them, returned to the NCA, and a few days later, received another call instructing me to prepare and inform my family, as they were finalizing the necessary arrangements. They wanted me to be ready for the next game against LSG, but I couldn't secure a flight ticket in time.”

“Eventually, I joined the team in Mumbai. Everyone was very welcoming. During my initial interaction with Mahi bhai, he advised me to just play my game, go after my shots, but not to try to hit every ball, and to keep doing what I had been doing for the past two or three years,” Mhatre recalled on the JioStar show ‘Dream On’.

The right-handed batter, who considers veteran opener Rohit Sharma as his idol, described a post-match discussion with Sharma as pivotal in his budding career. “Rohit Sharma is my favorite cricketer. I have admired his batting since childhood. After a recent IPL match, he spoke to me warmly. It was my first encounter with him.”

“He complimented my batting, offered advice on handling short balls, and encouraged me to continue playing my natural game. He even mentioned that I could reach out to him anytime without hesitation, which significantly eased my nerves. Every young cricketer dreams of donning the Indian jersey. Wearing it during the Under-19 World Cup was a memorable experience. I didn't feel pressured about upholding any legacy,” Mhatre added.

Looking ahead, Mhatre, who endures a demanding commute from Virar to Churchgate for practice, remains steadfast in his primary goal: securing a long-term position on the senior national team. He is set to appear next when CSK faces off against Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday.

“My ultimate aim is to represent India, maintain my spot on the team, and deliver strong performances. Whether it's the Ranji Trophy or the IPL, I strive to excel in every opportunity and focus less on the outcomes; they will come naturally,” he concluded.