New Delhi, November 11, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former India batter Abhinav Mukund believes Chennai Super Kings (CSK) should not consider trading young batter Ayush Mhatre, describing him as the franchise’s “next big thing”. He has, however, suggested that CSK explore a trade involving wicketkeeper-batter Urvil Patel ahead of the IPL 2027 retention deadline on November 17.
Mhatre, who captained India to this year’s U19 World Cup title, recently underwent surgery for a right hamstring tear sustained during his return to the Ranji Trophy last month. He is expected to remain out of action for two to three months. He had also suffered a left hamstring injury while playing for CSK in this year’s IPL.
Speaking on JioStar, Mukund said CSK already had several top-order batting options, including Mhatre, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis and Sarfaraz Khan. He felt Urvil could benefit another team looking for top-order firepower and a wicketkeeper, while CSK could retain Sarfaraz as a backup.
“Ayush Mhatre is not a tradable option. He’s the next big thing for CSK, bats at number three, opens the batting, and gives them an explosive start,” Mukund said.
Mukund also backed Shivam Dube amid speculation that CSK could trade the left-handed batting all-rounder. He said Dube’s ability to attack spin, provide middle-order balance and bowl medium pace made him valuable to the side, particularly on slow, turning tracks at Chepauk.
Mukund added that Dube’s importance would increase if the Impact Player rule is scrapped, arguing that CSK would struggle to find a like-for-like replacement at the auction. CSK have missed the playoffs in each of the last two IPL seasons. The 2027 auction is scheduled for December 16 in Goa.
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