Hyderabad, India : Chennai Super Kings suffered another setback in their struggling Indian Premier League campaign after teenage batter Ayush Mhatre sustained a hamstring injury that could sideline him for an extended period.
The 18-year-old, Chennai’s most prolific batter this season, was injured during Saturday’s defeat by Sunrisers Hyderabad, leaving the five-time champions seventh in the 10-team standings.
Mhatre scored a brisk 30 off 12 balls before clutching his hamstring and receiving lengthy treatment on the field. He was eventually dismissed, with early signs pointing to a tear.
“Obviously a hamstring tear. I don’t know how bad it is,” batting coach Mike Hussey told reporters. “We’ll scan him probably tomorrow or the next day.
“It looks pretty bad, unfortunately. And he’s going to be a big loss because he’s been in really nice touch for us.”
Mhatre has scored 201 runs in six innings at a strike rate above 177, emerging as a rare bright spot in Chennai’s inconsistent campaign.
“He’s an exciting young talent, but it’s going to give someone else an opportunity,” Hussey added. “We’ve got some really good players who haven’t had a chance yet.”
Chennai next face Mumbai Indians on Thursday as they look to revive their season.
