As Chennai Super Kings gear up to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in a crucial clash at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, head coach Stephen Fleming addressed the media with a mix of realism and optimism about CSK’s underwhelming season so far. When asked about the team’s struggling middle order, Fleming didn’t sugarcoat his response.
“And top,” he quipped, acknowledging that CSK’s batting issues run deep.
Chennai Super Kings have struggled in the powerplay overs throughout the season with slow runs and slim partnerships. Additionally, they’ve been below-par with totals this season as well.
With just two wins from eight games, CSK find themselves at the bottom of the IPL 2025 points table. Their famed batting unit has failed to deliver, both at the top and in the middle, leading to repeated collapses and underwhelming totals.
Despite the disappointing run, Fleming made it clear that CSK are not giving up hope just yet:
“We’re still hopeful of winning 6 out of 6, and some will giggle at that but RCB set a blueprint for that the year before. So while there’s still a chance, we have one eye on making sure that we think the best players for this game coming up will play.”
Poll
Can CSK turn around their season and make it to the playoffs?
Referencing RCB’s miraculous late-season turnaround in IPL 2024, Fleming emphasized that CSK would keep pushing while being realistic about their situation.
“We’re also aware that if it doesn’t work out, that we’ve got to make the most of what has been a poor season.”
With Sunrisers Hyderabad also stuck at two wins from eight games, this match is do-or-die for both sides. For CSK, it’s a chance to reset and respond — for the fans, it’s about hoping that “Thala’s” team still has one magical run left in them.
