Mhatre’s hamstring blow deepens Chennai’s IPL crisis

NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings’ patchy Indian Premier League (IPL) campaign suffered a fresh blow after their ​teenaged batter Ayush Mhatre tore his hamstring, an injury ‌that could put him on the sidelines for a long spell.

The 18-year-old has been the most prolific batter for five-time champions Chennai, ​who dropped to seventh place in the 10-team league ​after Saturday’s defeat by Sunrisers Hyderabad.

The top-order batter milked ⁠30 off 12 balls but was seen clutching his ​hamstring and required lengthy on-field treatment before being dismissed.

“Obviously a ​hamstring tear. I don’t know how bad it is,” Chennai batting coach Mike Hussey told reporters after the match.

“I’m sure we’ll scan him ​probably tomorrow or the next day.

“It looks pretty bad, unfortunately. ​And he’s going to be a big, big loss because he’s been ‌in ⁠really nice touch for us.”

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Mhatre has scored 201 runs across six innings at a healthy 177-plus strike rate.

“He’s an exciting young talent, but it’s going to give someone else an ​opportunity. So ​that’s exciting as ⁠well,” Hussey said.

“We’ve got some really good players that haven’t been able to get an ​opportunity. And so it’s going to be ​exciting for ⁠one of those guys.

“So, as much as we’re really disappointed to lose Ayush - I don’t know how long for - it’s ⁠exciting for ​a new player to come in ​and get a chance.”

Chennai face Mumbai Indians in their next match on Thursday.