Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru share one of the most intense rivalries of the Indian Premier League.
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, though, doesn’t mind taking a leaf out of his rival’s book in reviving his team’s flailing IPL 2025 campaign. The Super Kings are currently bottom of the table, going into their clash with ninth-placed Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Chepauk on Friday.
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“Well, we are hopeful of winning six out of six [last league games]. Some will giggle at that, but RCB set a blueprint for that in 2024. So while there’s still a chance, we have one eye on making sure we have the best players for this game playing,” said Fleming.
Following CSK’s defeat to Mumbai Indians earlier this week, skipper MS Dhoni had proposed a pragmatic approach for the latter half of IPL 2025.
“We are realistic about the position that we are in. But there will be no stone left unturned looking for players for next year, combinations for next year, and we’ll see it as an opportunity,” said Dhoni.
Dhoni’s thought process was echoed by Fleming, who emphasised the side’s awareness of the position it finds itself in.
“We’re aware that if it doesn’t work out, we’ve got to make the most of what has been a poor season. And the work we did in the past when we were in this position set us up to win the title the following year. So, we’re certainly aware of what needs to be done and how we can go about it,” said Fleming.
The former New Zealand captain also underlined CSK’s approach to balancing experience and youth.
“We’re at an interesting point where we have had a core group of Indian players. And we’ve added to that over the last few years with the likes of Ambati Rayudu and Ajinkya Rahane. But we haven’t been neglecting youth. Ayush Mhatre had an opportunity in the last game and looked good.
“It excites us as we have one eye on the future. But it’s a balance. It’s not all about youth. It’s not all about guys being too old. It’s somewhere in the middle where you get a mix of experience,” added Fleming.
