The five-time champions, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are having a mixed season in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. While the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side has registered three wins from 8 matches and are placed 6th in the standings, their campaign has been marred with several injuries, including a second injury to MS Dhoni. With signs of worry already in the camp following recent injuries to Ayush Mhatre and Khaleel Ahmed, they are looking for an apt replacement.
CSK eye youngster to replace Khaleel?
While they have roped in Akash Madhwal for Mhatre, they are looking for one slot open. Hoping to get some batting blitz under their ranks ahead of the IPL 2026 match vs MI, the Yellow Army have called in young 21-year-old Ayush Vartak for trails. Notably, the Mumbai batting all-rounder went unsold at the IPL 2026 mini-auction despite a fabulous U-23 State A Trophy 2025.
The update was confirmed by an unnamed source, who told TOI, “Yes, Ayush has been called up for trials on Tuesday. He will reach Chennai on Monday night.” Moreover, former CSK stalwart and star spinner all-rounder, Ravichandran Ashwin also confirmed the update in a post on X while introducing Ayush, reading, “CSK have been very diligent with scouting during the season to build a good core for the future.”
CSK have been very diligent with their scouting during the season to build a good core for the future.Upgrading in between auctions through such smart recruitments and trades is the best way to realign squads.Young talented Ayush Vartak from Maharashtra. pic.twitter.com/9P0YzJOgdi
— Ashwin (@ashwinravi99) April 27, 2026Who is Ayush Vartak? Here is all you need to know:
Full name: Ayush Vartak
Date of Birth: October 29, 2004
Age: 21 years and 181 days
Batting style: Right-hand bat
Bowling style: Right-arm medium fast
Team: Maharashtra
The young Maharashtra batter recently rose to fame for his six-hitting spree in the U-23 State A Trophy 2025, scoring 363 runs across 6 innings. Although the 21-year-old is still to make his Ranji Trophy debut despite being named in the probables, his campaign has been on an upward stride since representing the Mumbai Indians’ junior team in the Kanga League, where he scored a 36-ball ton.
Vartak has also led Mumbai’s U-23 team as captain to the Col CK Nayudu Trophy’s first phase last season. he registered scores of 192, 102, 105, 77, 59 and 54 across the innings, thus amassing over 750 runs in 9 matches. Following the title win, he was also honoured with the MCA’s U-23 Outstanding performance Awarding 2024.
Ayush Vartak has been called for CSK trials • Highest wicket-taker in Cooch Behar Trophy• 363 runs in 6 ing (avg 72, SR 170) in state U23• 132-run knock, 26 sixes• Gun fielderIG, Proper all-round package pic.twitter.com/TCJCE6Tgsb
— Abhinav MSDian (@Abhinav_hariom) April 27, 2026CSK calls-up Mumbai’s Ayush Vartak for trials as Khaleel’s replacement ahead of MI clash in IPL 2026 Inside Sport India.
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