Mastering the Game: Ayush Mhatre’s Rise in SMAT 2025-26

Meet Ayush Mhatre, Mumbai’s latest teenage cricket sensation, whose talent on the field contrasts sharply with his disinterest in social media. Embracing modern cricket dynamics effortlessly, Mhatre stands out by steering clear of today’s social media frenzy.

Mhatre breaks away from the traditional ‘khadoos’ mentality—synonymous with Mumbai cricketers’ grit and resilience—to develop qualities atypical of his geographic origins.

“Ayush is completely uninterested in social media. His entire focus is on cricket practice and strategy,” says his childhood coach, Prashant Shetty, a day after the 18-year-old scored his second consecutive century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in Lucknow.

While others might indulge in replaying his spectacular innings against Andhra, Mhatre himself refrains, reserving such reflections for tougher times as a reminder of his exceptional skill.

“I recommend watching his successful videos when a confidence boost is needed,” explains Shetty.

Currently, Mhatre is in superb form, effortlessly hitting sixes. His remarkable two centuries against Vidarbha and Andhra included 17 sixes, making him the youngest to notch centuries in all three formats.

While fans are captivated by Mhatre’s soaring success, Shetty recognized his potential early at the MIG Cricket Academy when Mhatre was just nine.

“His backfoot play, especially his punches, set him apart even at a young age, indicating his unique talent,” Shetty recalls.

While many young cricketers rely on instinct, making an impact on higher levels requires confidence in those instincts.

“His temperament is exceptional. While cricketers often doubt themselves at higher levels, Ayush remains confident, always aiming for boundaries and sixes,” Shetty adds.

Shetty emphasizes the significance of starting well, occasionally reminding Mhatre of its importance in maintaining momentum.

Mhatre’s six-hitting prowess is extraordinary, underscored by the 17 sixes in his recent hundreds. His ability to amass runs swiftly aligns with modern T20 cricket paces.

All-format player

Mhatre’s recent T20 centuries, achieved in 49 and 58 balls, conform to Shetty’s benchmarks. His conventional play in the ‘V’ stands out, avoiding scoops and ramps in favor of clearing boundaries—confidence bolstered by simulation training sessions.

“Our off-season includes range hitting sessions, cultivating his belief in clearing any ground,” Shetty shares.

Though Mhatre’s T20 achievements have drawn attention, his strong red-ball game has been vital to his success. Notably, he debuted in the Irani Cup and top-scored in an unofficial India ‘A’ Test.

“Success in red-ball cricket speaks volumes of one’s temperament and fundamentals. Ayush is adept across formats, excelling in centuries,” notes Shetty.

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Freedom

Supported by both his coach and IPL team, Mhatre thrives in an environment that embraces failure as part of his natural game.

On his T20 debut for the Chennai Super Kings, a five-time title-winning team, Mhatre’s 15-ball 32 marked him as a player to watch. Shetty accredits CSK for offering him the freedom to play his own game.

“CSK encouraged him to play naturally, leading to his impressive debut and subsequent retention,” says Shetty.

Even with rising fame, Mhatre’s success is deeply rooted in his supportive family. His father left his bank job to accompany Ayush on the daily journey from Virar to Mumbai, showing unwavering support.

“His father’s positivity and belief in Ayush are rare and impactful, even if Ayush faces setbacks,” Shetty remarks.

Leadership

With talent comes greater responsibility; Mhatre is set to lead India in the Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai. While he’s captained before, enhancing his expressiveness as a leader remains crucial.

“He needs to express himself more as a captain, making significant points when necessary,” Shetty advises, highlighting the importance of building confidence among senior athletes.

Mhatre’s stint with CSK, under MS Dhoni’s leadership, has improved his communication skills. He now understands the importance of discerning what to say and, crucially, what to leave unsaid.

Remaining understated yet powerful, Mhatre focuses on the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches, preferring to let his cricket speak for itself.

Published on Dec 01, 2025