Stephen Fleming Cautions Against Expecting Instant CSK Revival with Dhoni’s Return
In a candid press conference in New Delhi, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming addressed the mounting challenges facing his team in the IPL 2025 season. With the return of MS Dhoni as captain following an injury to Ruturaj Gaikwad, Fleming tempered expectations, warning fans and critics alike that even a leader of Dhoni’s stature isn’t a miracle worker.
‘His influence will always be prominent, but he’s not a soothsayer; he hasn’t got a magic wand,’ Fleming remarked ahead of CSK’s crucial encounter against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Monday. ‘He can’t just wave it over the team, or he would have done so earlier. It’s about us working tirelessly alongside MS to turn this around. In both of our cricketing careers, we’ve faced tough situations that demand immense energy, and we must channel it correctly.’
CSK’s campaign has been nothing short of a nightmare, with the team languishing at the bottom of the table after five consecutive defeats. Their most recent humiliation came against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at their fortress, Chepauk, where they slumped to their lowest-ever IPL total of 103/9. This string of losses has left the five-time champions reeling, with Fleming admitting that the lack of fight in the last game was particularly painful.
‘The most disappointing aspect, especially in the last game, was the lack of competition we put up. That hurt a lot,’ he said. ‘There’s been significant internal soul-searching, but it’s not just about words. It’s about players seizing the moment, rediscovering form, and shedding any apprehension.’
Fleming also took a moment to reflect on the evolving dynamics of T20 cricket, expressing concern over the game’s growing obsession with power-hitting. ‘I know there’s a fascination with power and six-hitting, but there’s still room for craft and skill. I’d be very sad if this just became a baseball competition,’ he mused, highlighting his belief in a balanced approach to the format.
Looking ahead to the clash with a formidable LSG side, currently riding high on confidence, Fleming provided a positive injury update on all-rounder Shivam Dube, confirming he is likely to be fit for the match. However, he singled out LSG’s explosive batter Nicholas Pooran as a major threat. ‘He’s the best player in the world at the moment by some distance—consistent, powerful, and a real danger,’ Fleming cautioned, underlining the need for CSK to devise a specific plan to contain the West Indian star.
As CSK prepares to battle LSG at the Ekana Cricket Stadium, all eyes will be on Dhoni, who at 43 years old continues to inspire with his leadership and composure. With over 5,000 runs in the IPL and a legacy of leading CSK to five titles, his return to the helm offers a glimmer of hope. Yet, as Fleming reiterated, it will take a collective effort—combining Dhoni’s experience with the hunger of younger players—to salvage their faltering season.
The road ahead remains daunting for the men in yellow, but if there’s one team known for scripting epic comebacks, it’s CSK. Can they rise from the ashes against LSG? Only time will tell.