‘We have been very impressed with his skills’ – CSK coach Stephen Fleming praises Ayush Mhatre after 94 vs RCB

CSK Head Coach Stephen Fleming showered young player Ayush Mhatre with plaudits following the completion of Match 52 of the IPL 2025 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Notably, the opening batsman, who is 17 years old, scored 94 runs off of just 48 balls with a spectacular knock.

Fleming seemed genuinely charmed by Mhatre’s demeanour and mannerisms, emphasising the teen’s unique qualities. He gave Mhatre credit for both his general batting technique and his aggressive manner, which is crucial in contemporary T20 cricket. Fleming was thrilled with Mhatre’s repertoire of strokes and ability to execute them on the big stage, in addition to his talent, hand-eye coordination, bat swing, temperament, and aggression.

“He is talented. His hand-eye coordination is good. His swing is lovely and smooth. He is combative. Every quality that we value in a contemporary T20 player. But in my opinion, it’s the disposition and the ability to perform both in a trial and on the main stage. During the post-match conversation, Fleming stated, “That’s what I’m most impressed with.”

“It’s one thing to have a lot of shots, but to be able to execute that game plan on a big stage in front of some of the biggest players in the world is what I admire,” he continued.

Ayush Mhatre is a top-tier talent, according to the former CSK batter, who often found it difficult to describe things about players. Even though he acknowledged that his career was still in its early stages, the young batter’s skill set has impressed everyone from the trials to the games.

“What he was doing had a certain character that can be difficult to describe at times. Even though it’s early, we have been quite pleased with his abilities since he joined us early in the season and tried out,” Fleming said.

Ayush Mhatre blistering 94 gave CSK hope before his dismissal

Ayush Mhatre was in sublime form against RCB, smashing 94 runs off just 48 balls, including 9 fours and 5 sixes. At one point, his fluent batting had tilted the match in CSK’s favour. However, his dismissal turned the tide, dealing a significant blow to CSK’s chances of clinching victory against a strong RCB side.