Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has strongly criticised Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after their young batter Ayush Mhatre was seen struggling on the back of suffering a hamstring injury during their clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 18 in Hyderabad. The incident has raised serious questions about CSK’s injury management and on-field decisions, especially after the player was in visible discomfort.
Speaking on his YouTube show, Ashwin pointed out that the 18-year-old came out to bat with strapped knees. “Ayush Mhatre’s injury: I hope he is back, but by the look of it, I fear he will be out for a while,” Ashwin said. “While coming into bat, he came with a strap on his knee. For 2-3 matches, he has been playing as Impact Sub.”
While chasing 195, Mhatre was clearly in pain while running between the wickets during the powerplay overs. Despite getting checked by physiotherapist, he continued to bat and even attempted quick singles which almost got him run out. Soon after, he got out while attempting a shot, ending up with 30 runs off 13 balls.
The former CSK player also questioned the team’s decision to keep Mhatre on the field despite his condition. “It couldn’t have been a cramp because he did not field at all. Even if he had gotten cramps even when not fielding, then we have to look at his hydration. Okay, it’s not a cramp. Let’s assume it was an injury. Your physios have come in and checked him. He was limping badly, you are asking him to play another ball and making him run between wickets.” he added.
Ashwin felt that the youngster should have returned to the dressing room as retired hurt when he started limping. “I couldn’t understand. Should he have not retired out when he was limping? In this season, Ayush Mhatre has been one of the stars. I don’t understand how they can handle him carelessly. I was shocked,” Ashwin explained. “Everyone in the commentary box kept their mic on the table and watched what was happening with complete shock. Very, very surprising”
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