Younger Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) batsman Ayush Mhatre has opened up in regards to the invaluable steering he acquired from legendary skipper MS Dhoni, highlighting how the veteran’s recommendation formed his management strategy throughout his stint as India’s U-19 captain.
Mhatre lately led India to a title-winning marketing campaign on the U-19 World Cup and recalled his interactions with Dhoni throughout his time with CSK within the IPL 2025 season, describing them as pivotal to his improvement as a younger chief.
In a video shared by the Indian Premier League on April 14, the 18-year-old batting sensation spoke in regards to the ‘life-changing’ recommendation he acquired throughout his time within the Chennai Tremendous Kings camp.
Earlier than main India within the ICC Beneath-19 Cricket World Cup, Mhatre spent appreciable time within the CSK setup, the place he approached Dhoni to grasp methods to deal with the strain of captaincy on the highest degree.
Recalling the interplay, Mhatre mentioned: “I spoke to him about captaincy after the IPL because it was my first time main. He suggested me to remain calm on the bottom and by no means take selections when offended. There shall be irritating moments, particularly throughout opposition partnerships, however if you happen to keep calm and let that part move, you may make higher selections.”
APPLYING DHONI’S ‘STAY CALM’ MANTRA
Mhatre’s performances within the match mirrored the influence of that recommendation, as he led India to a record-extending sixth U-19 World Cup title with a dominant 100-run win over England within the last on February 6, 2026.
Main from the entrance, he delivered in key moments, scoring 62 in a report semi-final chase in opposition to Afghanistan and a significant 53 within the last, supporting Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s gorgeous 175.
With the ball, Mhatre additionally impressed, choosing up seven wickets at a mean of 12.42, together with a three-wicket haul in opposition to Pakistan.
Beneath his management, India remained unbeaten all through the match held throughout Zimbabwe and Namibia, showcasing composure and tactical readability, hallmarks typically related to Dhoni’s captaincy type.
In the meantime, MS Dhoni continues to be a key determine within the Chennai Tremendous Kings setup, mentoring younger gamers regardless of ongoing health issues. The veteran has not featured on the sphere within the ongoing IPL season resulting from harm, however his presence off the sphere stays influential.
With CSK struggling early within the season, managing only one win in 4 matches, followers shall be hoping for Dhoni’s return within the upcoming conflict.
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