Mumbai’s batsman Ayush Mhatre is facing yet another setback, following a recurrence of a hamstring injury. During Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy match against Chandigarh on Sunday, Mhatre suffered a Grade 4 tear in his right hamstring, sidelining him for an estimated month. This unfortunate turn of events comes shortly after his recovery from a separate hamstring strain incurred earlier this year while playing for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.
In the game against Chandigarh at Wankhede Stadium, Mhatre encountered trouble while batting, experiencing distress in his hamstring during a run between wickets. Despite this, he managed to score a commendable 48 before being dismissed. Missing from the field in both of Chandigarh’s innings, Mhatre’s condition was a significant factor in Mumbai’s innings defeat.
Mumbai’s captain, Siddhesh Lad, reflected on Mhatre’s condition post-game. “It seems that he will not be with the team for some time now,” Lad admitted. “The way he was limping in the match, it does not look like he would be available for the second or the third match.”
Prior to this episode, Mhatre had appeared to be in good shape during practice sessions and club games. However, complications resurfaced during the match, raising concerns about his recovery trajectory.
Adding to Mumbai’s concerns, Shardul Thakur, another team mainstay, is out of the upcoming round against Himachal Pradesh due to a fracture in his right middle finger, sustained during practice. He is, however, expected to return by the third round.
The Mumbai team’s ranks have been beset by these injury issues just as the season is beginning, forcing adaptations in their strategy for upcoming matches.
