Chennai Super Kings’ decision to retire out Ayush Mhatre came at a critical juncture in their innings during their IPL 2026 match against Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday. The move aimed to accelerate the scoring in the final overs and contributed to CSK’s first win of the season.
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At 175 for two in the 18th over, the innings had lost momentum following a strong middle phase. Lungi Ngidi bowled a tight 17th over, and T Natarajan followed with accurate yorkers, restricting the set batters’ ability to find boundaries.
Mhatre, who had anchored the innings with a composed 59 off 36 balls, was struggling to increase the run rate. With only a few overs remaining, CSK opted to retire him out to bring in Shivam Dube, known for his ability to attack the death bowlers from the outset.
“There was nothing much. I was batting and the team needed some big shots. Shivam also can hit big shots. I wasn’t really getting it going, so the team planned it that way. It happens in the game,” Mhatre said after the match on Star Sports.
The strategy paid off as Dube provided the necessary late impetus, helping CSK surpass the 200-run mark and finish on 212 for two.
Earlier in the innings, Mhatre had played a crucial role, adding 113 runs with Sanju Samson for the second wicket. This partnership now stands as CSK’s second-highest against Delhi Capitals in IPL history. Their stand steadied the innings after the early dismissal of Ruturaj Gaikwad and maintained a steady scoring rate through the middle overs.
CSK’s total proved sufficient as they bowled Delhi Capitals out for 189, securing a 23-run victory and opening their account in IPL 2026.
CSK environment feels like family
Mhatre also reflected on his experience within the Chennai Super Kings setup, highlighting the support he has received.
“It’s very different and feels like a family for me. They treat me like a kid, so I really enjoy playing with them. The support staff is also helping a lot and working hard for us.”
With this retirement out, Mhatre joins a select group of players, including Ravichandran Ashwin and Devon Conway, to have been retired out in the IPL, and is only the second from CSK to be retired out despite reaching a half-century.
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