The injury to Ayush Mhatre, who had solidified the No. 3 spot with 201 runs this season, comes at a critical juncture as the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) prepare for their high-voltage rivalry against Mumbai Indians (MI).
With CSK management yet to name an official injury replacement for the squad, they will likely look within their existing roster to fill the void. Here are the three most likely candidates to take that pivotal No. 3 position:
1. Urvil Patel: The Like-for-Like Explosive Option
Urvil Patel is widely considered the frontrunner for the spot. Having joined CSK in 2025 as a mid-season replacement, he has already proven he can handle the pressure.
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Why he fits: He possesses a high strike rate (evidenced by his 31 off 11 balls against KKR last year) and is a natural top-order batter.
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The Case: As a retained player, he knows the team dynamics well. Slotting him at No. 3 allows CSK to maintain the aggressive intent that Mhatre provided during the Powerplay.
2. Sarfaraz Khan: The “In-Form” Tactical Shift
Sarfaraz Khan has been a revelation in IPL 2026, finally translating his legendary domestic form into consistent T20 success.
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Why he fits: He has already notched a 25-ball half-century this season (against RCB on April 5). While he has been batting at No. 4, moving him up one spot could provide the stability CSK needs against MI’s potent bowling attack.
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The Case: Promoting Sarfaraz allows CSK to play an extra bowling option or a dedicated finisher further down the order, as Sarfaraz’s improved strike rate (averaging nearly 30) makes him a versatile anchor.
3. Kartik Sharma: The Flexible Impact Option
Kartik Sharma is the “wildcard” in-squad choice. Though he has primarily been used as an Impact Sub this season, Mhatre’s injury might necessitate his inclusion in the starting XI.
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Why he fits: While his numbers this year (25 runs in 3 matches) are modest, he offers a left-handed batting option that could disrupt MI’s bowling lengths and match-up strategies.
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The Case: If CSK wants to keep their middle-order power (like Dube or Jadeja) for the later overs, Kartik can play the role of a “pinch-hitter” or a rotating partner at No. 3 to keep the scoreboard ticking.
The MI vs. CSK Context (April 2026)
The timing of this change is sensitive. With the 2026 IPL season heating up, CSK currently faces a confident MI side. Interestingly, this match follows a touching moment in the league where MI veteran MS Dhoni reportedly supported a CSK star’s family following a personal tragedy, reminding fans that despite the “El Clásico” rivalry, the bond between these two franchises remains deep.
