Ayush Mhatre Receives Signed Bat from Rohit Sharma Ahead of U-19 Tour

Emotional Tribute from a Rising Star

Ayush Mhatre, an emerging batting talent from Mumbai, expressed heartfelt gratitude after receiving a signed bat from India's ODI captain, Rohit Sharma. As Mhatre prepares to lead the India U-19 team on their upcoming tour to England, he took to Instagram to share his appreciation. The post included a photo of him with Rohit, holding the autographed bat close to him, a smile illuminating his face.

“A bat, a blessing, and a memory of a lifetime — thank you Rohit da.”

This thoughtful gesture from the seasoned opener comes just days before the U-19 squad is set to depart for England on June 24. The tour will span a month, featuring five Youth ODIs and two multi-day matches against the England U-19 team, concluding on July 23.

A Longstanding Admiration

Mhatre, who gained national recognition following a successful IPL 2025 season with Chennai Super Kings, has long looked up to Rohit. Earlier this year, they shared a dressing room during a Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Jammu & Kashmir, where Rohit made a rare domestic appearance, taking Mhatre's place in the lineup. Despite this, Mhatre viewed the experience as an honor rather than a disappointment.

Reflecting on that match, he remarked,

“Started playing cricket by watching him bat on television to sharing a dressing room with my idol was such an unreal moment. Lots of learning to take forward.”

Rohit, now 38, has recently announced his retirement from Test cricket and is currently on a break. His next appearance will be during India's white-ball tour of Australia later this year. For Mhatre, the signed bat is more than just a keepsake; it symbolizes a significant milestone in his budding career, influenced by the player he has always admired.

As the U-19 tour approaches, the young captain not only bears the weight of responsibility but also carries a tangible reminder of the trust his idol has placed in him.