‘Learn from RCB’ – CSK Coach Stephen Fleming’s Message to MS Dhoni & Co.
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming urges his team to stay hopeful and take inspiration from RCB’s dramatic comeback last season.
Chennai Super Kings may be sitting at the bottom of the IPL 2025 table after eight matches, but head coach Stephen Fleming still believes there’s hope — and he’s pointing towards Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s dramatic turnaround in IPL 2024 to keep the faith alive.
Ahead of their crucial clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, Fleming reminded his team of RCB’s example. Last year, RCB had won just one out of their first eight games and were almost written off. However, they bounced back in style, winning all their remaining six matches and grabbing the fourth spot to qualify for the playoffs.
“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,” said Fleming, showing that he’s not giving up yet despite the poor start.
The coach made it clear that CSK isn’t treating any of their remaining fixtures as dead rubbers. Each match is a chance — not just to stay in the hunt, but also to give the best players a platform and prepare well, even if things don’t go in their favour.
“There won’t be a wasted game or an opportunity in the next few weeks, and the players know that as well. And that creates opportunity and creates a bit of competition within. We won’t let any time go to waste,” Fleming stated.
CSK now needs to win all their remaining six games to have any chance of reaching the playoffs. While the path ahead looks tough, there’s still belief in the dressing room. Fleming admitted they are planning for both scenarios — a strong comeback, or an early exit — but what’s certain is that the team will fight till the end.
“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, but 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,” the coach added.
Chennai fans will be hoping for a miracle, just like RCB pulled off last year. And the team, guided by Fleming, is determined not to give up without a fight.
