IPL 2025: Stephen Fleming opens up on CSK’s positives despite a dismal season

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has shed light on the franchise’s positives despite a poor run in the ongoing IPL 2025. The five-time champions have managed only three wins in 12 matches as they could not deliver collectively.

However, when CSK was knocked out of the playoffs race, they started giving opportunities to young players like Shaik Rasheed, Ayush Mhatre and Urvil Patel. 

Fleming shared his delight that the youngsters have been able to grab their chances with both hands.

Fleming said in the pre-match press conference, “They have certainly had an impact which is positive from a season that has been a challenge. But we realised that early on that we were off pace. So to be able to introduce these players, they are definitely in line for the future as we regenerate the team and redevelop or reconfirm our philosophy of how we want to play.”

“My point has always been a mixture of youth and experience. I am a fan of experience, experience wins tournaments. But the youth and talent in this country is something you can’t ignore.”

The former New Zealand captain said the opportunity to finish the season well is really important for them and they want to end their campaign on a high.

“The opportunity to finish the season well is really important to us. We had a good win in the last game. The intensity in the side, the way we play these two games will have intensity. It is important to us every time we represent CSK. It is important that we play as well as we can. We know we haven’t been up to par.”

Speaking on MS Dhoni’s future in the IPL, Fleming said, “I don’t know.”

CSK will take on Rajasthan Royals at Delhi on Tuesday.