CSK Replacement Options: 3 Players Who Could Replace Ayush Mhatre After Injury

Chennai Super Kings face a major selection dilemma ahead of their clash against Mumbai Indians after young batter Ayush Mhatre was ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 with a hamstring injury. The right-hander had been one of CSK's standout performers this season, scoring 201 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 177.87, making his absence a significant blow to the middle order.

Mhatre sustained the injury during CSK's previous outing against Sunrisers Hyderabad while attempting a second run, and subsequent scans confirmed he would require 6-12 weeks of rehabilitation. With the five-time champions already struggling for consistency this season, replacing his stability and attacking intent at number three becomes an immediate priority.

Here are three players who could realistically step into Mhatre's role in the CSK playing XI.

Sarfaraz Khan emerges as the most reliable in-squad replacement

Among the available options, Sarfaraz Khan appears to be the most natural replacement due to his current form and adaptability in the middle order. The right-hander has already impressed during IPL 2026, scoring 147 runs in six matches, including a quickfire half-century that showcased his ability to accelerate when required.

Although Sarfaraz has primarily featured at number five, his ability to handle spin and rotate strike makes him a viable candidate to move up to number three. This shift could also allow CSK to maintain balance in the middle order, potentially pushing power hitters like Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube into more aggressive finishing roles.

His familiarity with Indian conditions and proven temperament in pressure situations could make him the safest tactical adjustment without forcing a major reshuffle elsewhere in the batting order.

Kartik Sharma offers powerplay aggression and long-term upside

Another strong contender is Kartik Sharma, one of CSK's most expensive uncapped signings at the IPL 2026 auction. Known for his aggressive strokeplay, Sharma boasts a T20 strike rate exceeding 160 at the domestic level, making him well suited to capitalize on powerplay conditions if he walks in early.

While he has had limited opportunities so far this season, Mhatre's injury could provide him with a clear pathway to establish himself in the XI. Batting at number three would allow Sharma to play freely, especially if early wickets fall or if CSK look to maintain attacking momentum during the first six overs.

Given CSK's long-term investment in Sharma, this moment could represent a crucial test of both his temperament and readiness for a larger role in the franchise's future plans.

Shaik Rasheed provides stability and technical discipline

For a more conservative approach, Shaik Rasheed stands out as a technically sound option capable of anchoring the innings. The Andhra Pradesh batter has experience batting at number three in domestic cricket and previously opened alongside Mhatre during IPL 2025, giving him familiarity with the team's batting structure.

Rasheed's game is built around patience and placement rather than brute force, which could help stabilize the innings if CSK lose early wickets. While he may not replicate Mhatre's attacking flair, his composure could prove valuable in high-pressure contests, particularly against strong bowling attacks like Mumbai Indians.

CSK face crucial selection calls ahead of Mumbai Indians clash

Replacing a player in form is never straightforward, and Mhatre's absence leaves a noticeable gap in CSK's batting rhythm. Whether the team opts for Sarfaraz's consistency, Sharma's aggression or Rasheed's composure will likely depend on pitch conditions and match strategy against Mumbai Indians.

With CSK already searching for momentum in IPL 2026, the decision on who replaces Mhatre could shape not just the Mumbai clash, but the trajectory of their campaign moving forward.