Ayush Mhatre has revealed how a simple message to Rohit Sharma turned into a memorable two-hour meeting that left the young batter stunned. The Chennai Super Kings player said the conversation with his idol gave him confidence before the England tour and became one of the most meaningful moments of his early career.
The Maharashtra batter, who grew up watching Rohit as a Mumbai cricketer, said he was ready to travel just to meet him in person. Rohit responded warmly, invited him over, and later shared encouraging words that Mhatre still remembers as a dream experience.
A message that changed everything
Mhatre described the exchange on the Chennai Super Kings YouTube channel, saying he first sent Rohit a message because he wanted advice before leaving for England. Rohit then called him directly and asked where he lived, after learning that Mhatre was based in Virar.
The young batter said Rohit asked if he would really travel all the way from Virar to meet him, and he replied that he would go anywhere for the chance. Rohit then suggested a video call, but Mhatre insisted on meeting face to face, which led to an invitation to Rohit’s home the next day.
Two hours with an idol
Mhatre said the meeting lasted nearly two hours and felt unreal because one of his biggest cricketing heroes gave him that much time. He shared that the discussion covered more than one topic, and the experience stayed with him long after he left.
The young batter also recalled Rohit’s words before the meeting, including the message that he could reach out whenever needed. That level of openness, Mhatre said, made the interaction feel personal and genuine rather than like a brief meeting between senior and junior players.
Why the moment stood out
For a youngster who rose through Mumbai cricket and then moved into the Chennai Super Kings setup, the meeting carried a strong emotional weight. It also came after he had already made an impact at the IPL level, which made the encouragement even more valuable.
Here are the key details of the interaction:
- Mhatre messaged Rohit before the England tour.
- Rohit called him back and asked where he lived.
- Mhatre said he was willing to travel anywhere to meet him.
- Rohit shared his home address and invited him over.
- The two spoke for around two hours.
From admiration to belief
Mhatre’s admiration for Rohit began long before their meeting, as he followed the India and Mumbai star while growing up. That admiration became even more personal after Rohit’s support during a phase that mattered to the youngster’s development.
The timing also mattered because Mhatre was preparing for an important tour and wanted guidance from someone who had handled pressure at the highest level. The conversation appears to have given him both reassurance and a stronger sense of belonging in top-level cricket.
On-field progress after the meeting
Mhatre later backed up that confidence with results on tour, helping his side win the Youth ODI series 3-2 in England. He also scored 340 runs across four innings in the Youth Test series, which underlined his growing value as a batter.
His progress has continued in franchise cricket as well, with CSK retaining him after a promising season in which he scored 240 runs. For a young player still building his career, the Rohit meeting now stands as an important early milestone that could influence more than just his confidence.
What makes Rohit’s gesture notable
Rohit’s response stands out because it shows the impact senior players can have on emerging talent beyond the boundary ropes. A short call, a personal invitation, and time spent in conversation can shape a youngster’s mindset just as much as technical advice.
That is why Mhatre’s account has drawn attention among fans, especially those who understand how rare such access can be for a player still establishing himself. As he continues his rise, the memory of Rohit’s encouragement remains part of his journey, and it may not be long before the two cross paths again in a more competitive setting.
Read more at: www.hindustantimes.com
