CSK announce former MI star as Ayush Mhatre's replacement for remainder of IPL 2026

"Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 due to injury," CSK's official statement read

The transition comes at a crucial juncture in the tournament as CSK looks to bolster its pace attack. Madhwal joins the squad for a fee of Rs 30 Lakh and will look to replicate the high-impact bowling that made him a standout performer during his debut season in Mumbai.

What does Akash Madhwal bring to CSK's table?

A capable right-arm pacer, he brings valuable top-tier experience from his previous seasons with the Mumbai Indians (2023–2024) and Rajasthan Royals (2025). During his tenure with Mumbai, he notably flourished as a specialist in the death overs under the leadership of Rohit Sharma.

The 2023 season represents the most impactful chapter of his career. Madhwal was instrumental in guiding the Mumbai Indians to the playoffs, tallying 14 wickets in just eight matches. He proved his mettle in high-pressure situations, culminating in a defining performance during the Eliminator against the Lucknow Super Giants. In that fixture, he delivered a masterclass, claiming 5 wickets for just 5 runs—a historic feat that stands as the best bowling analysis ever recorded in an IPL playoff match.

Over the course of his 17 IPL appearances, Madhwal has accumulated 23 wickets. Beyond his statistics, the 32-year-old from Roorkee, Uttarakhand, brings an unconventional and inspiring background to the side. As a qualified civil engineer who played tennis-ball cricket well into his mid-twenties, his unique journey to the professional circuit has significantly shaped his bowling craft. This history is evident in his composure during the final overs, where his precise control and ability to land yorkers at high speed have become his trademark.