Ayush Vartak has been called for trials by CSK: The troubles of Chennai Super Kings are increasing in IPL 2026. The team has faced 5 defeats out of 8 matches so far and its hopes of reaching the playoffs are gradually decreasing. The batting of the team led by captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is fine, but the lack of depth in the bowling is clearly visible. Along with this, the shadow of injuries is also looming over the team. Some star players have been out of the entire season, so the CSK team is looking for a new player.
Star wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni has not been able to play a single match till now due to injury. No time has been given for his return. Apart from this, Dewald has returned after recovering from brevis side strain, but Nathan Ellis is out due to hamstring injury. Spencer Johnson is also suffering from a back stress fracture. On the other hand, Ayush Mhatre and Khalil Ahmed have also been out of the entire season. Akash Madhwal has been included in the team in place of Ayush Mhatre, but the replacement of Khalil Ahmed has not been decided yet.
In view of this injury crisis, CSK has called 21-year-old all-rounder Ayush Vartak from Mumbai for mid-season trials. According to reports, Vartak will reach Chennai soon. He plays for Mumbai and Parsi Gymkhana and is a right-arm medium pace bowler. He also bats well in the lower order and has the ability to hit big shots.
Vartak had a brilliant performance in the Navi Mumbai T20 League, where he scored 264 runs at a strike rate of 191 and also took 3 wickets. He has also played for North Mumbai Panthers and Mumbai Under-19 team.
