Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Mumbai Vice-Captain Ayush Mhatre Ruled Out Due to Hamstring Injury
Mumbai's Ranji Trophy 2026-27 campaign faces an early hurdle as vice-captain Ayush Mhatre, 19, is ruled out for a month with a recurrence of his right hamstring injury. The setback impacts the team's initial fixtures, including their opening clash against Chandigarh from October 11-14, 2026.
Mumbai's ambitions for the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season have suffered an early blow with dynamic vice-captain Ayush Mhatre sidelined for a month due to a recurrence of his right hamstring injury. The news comes as a major setback for the 42-time champions, particularly during the crucial opening phase of India's premier first-class competition. Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Tushar Deshpande Takes Hat-Trick Against Chandigarh, Claims Six-Wicket Haul for Mumbai.
The 19-year-old Mhatre, celebrated for his aggressive right-handed batting, sustained the injury during preparations, which has forced him out of action, including Mumbai's ongoing or recently concluded first-round fixture. This marks another chapter in Mhatre's battle with hamstring issues. He was previously forced out of the second half of the IPL 2026 season, where he was Chennai Super Kings' leading run-scorer with 201 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 177.87, and also missed the Mumbai T20 League in June due to similar concerns.
Injury Impact and Mumbai's Season Start
Mhatre's absence is particularly keenly felt given his recent rise and appointment as vice-captain for the Ranji Trophy season. His prolific scoring, including a majestic 176 against Maharashtra in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy and a record-breaking List A century, had cemented his place as a pivotal player for Mumbai.
The 2026-27 Ranji Trophy, the 92nd season of the tournament, commenced on October 11, 2026, featuring 38 teams vying for the coveted title. Mumbai's opening fixture, a Group D clash against Chandigarh, began on October 11, 2026, at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, with play starting at 9:30 AM IST. The team will now have to navigate the early rounds without their designated deputy.
Ayush Mhatre's Rising Profile
Born on July 16, 2007, Ayush Mhatre has rapidly ascended through the ranks of Indian cricket. He made his first-class debut for Mumbai at just 17 during the Irani Cup in October 2024 and quickly followed up with a significant Ranji Trophy century. His impressive performances also earned him a spot with Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025. The recurrent hamstring injury, however, raises concerns about the young player's fitness management.
Key Facts: Ayush Mhatre's Injury
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Ayush Mhatre (Mumbai Vice-Captain) |
| Age | 19 years old (born July 16, 2007) |
| Injury | Recurrence of right hamstring injury |
| Out For | One month |
| Competition | Ranji Trophy 2026-27 |
| First Match | Mumbai vs Chandigarh (Oct 11-14, 2026, Mumbai) |
Ranji Trophy 2026-27 Broadcast Details
Fans across India can follow the Ranji Trophy 2026-27, which is administered by the BCCI. Selected matches are broadcast on the Star Sports Network on television. Live streaming for a few games is also available via the JioHotstar mobile application and website, requiring a subscription. For the latest scores and updates, fans can refer to BCCI.TV and the official BCCI App. Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Suryakumar Yadav Dropped From Mumbai Squad, Ayush Mhatre Named Vice-Captain.
Mumbai will now look to their seasoned players to step up and fill the void left by Mhatre's injury as they navigate the initial phase of the Ranji Trophy without their promising young vice-captain. The team will be hoping for a swift recovery for Mhatre, who is expected to return to action by mid-November, during the second phase of the tournament's league stage.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 13, 2026 03:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
