Chasing a massive target of 214 runs, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) nearly pulled off a stunning win against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in their IPL 2025 clash. While RCB had the edge thanks to a brutal late cameo from Romario Shepherd, who smashed 53 off just 14 balls, it was CSK’s 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre who stole the show with an outstanding knock that almost turned the game on its head.
Batting first, RCB posted a daunting 213, largely due to Shepherd’s explosive hitting in the final overs. CSK’s chase started with purpose as openers Shaik Rasheed and Ayush Mhatre showed intent early on. Rasheed hit a six and a four off Yash Dayal in the third over, but it was Mhatre who truly grabbed the spotlight. In the fifth over, he took on veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar, smashing five boundaries and a six in a sensational display of fearless batting.
However, RCB bounced back as Krunal Pandya and Lungi Ngidi slowed things down, removing Rasheed and Sam Curran while conceding just nine runs in two tight overs. But Mhatre, showing maturity far beyond his age, steadied the innings with Ravindra Jadeja. Together, they built a crucial 114-run partnership. Jadeja played the perfect support role with a composed 77* off 45 balls, while Mhatre continued his counterattack with powerful yet elegant strokes.
Ayush Mhatre in CSK vs RCB: A Breathe of Fresh Air for Super Kings With Mhatre’s Maiden IPL Fifty
Mhatre’s innings was a beautiful blend of street-smart batting and solid technique, skills he honed playing on Mumbai’s famous Oval Maidan. He even went after Romario Shepherd, hitting a massive 98-meter six. Though dropped twice, Jadeja stayed calm under pressure, helping CSK stay close to the target.
Mhatre’s brilliant 94-run knock came to an end when he tried to clear the boundary off Ngidi but was caught by Krunal Pandya. His 25-ball fifty and overall performance left fans and experts in awe, showing that this young talent is ready for the big stage.
There were doubts when Mhatre replaced the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, with other names in the mix. But MS Dhoni and coach Stephen Fleming backed him after seeing his form in the nets, and the youngster repaid that trust with a knock to remember.
Youngest Player Ayush Mhatre’s innings was not just about power, it was about composure, maturity, and a fearless mindset that marks the new generation of Indian cricketers.
Also read: How can Chennai Super Kings (CSK) Still Make the Playoffs of IPL 2025?
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