Chennai Super Kings (CSK) find themselves in a must-win situation as they face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their upcoming IPL 2025 clash, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. After eight matches, CSK sits at the bottom of the points table, but head coach Stephen Fleming is not ready to give up hope just yet. Drawing inspiration from Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) remarkable turnaround in IPL 2024, Fleming believes his team can still make the playoffs if they win their remaining six games.
“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,” Fleming said, referring to RCB’s stunning resurgence in the 2024 season, which saw them win all their remaining matches after a poor start. RCB, after winning just one of their first eight matches, managed to secure a playoff berth with six straight wins, culminating in a dramatic final match victory over CSK.
For CSK, a similar dramatic turnaround is required, but it won’t be easy. With a series of disappointing results so far, CSK must now win every match to stay in playoff contention. Despite the tough road ahead, Fleming is keeping the faith, though he also acknowledged the reality that a comeback may not happen. “While there’s still a chance, we have one eye on making sure the best players for this game will play. But if it doesn’t work out, we’ll make the most of a poor season,” said the CSK coach.
Fleming Reflects on Dhoni’s Statement
Fleming also addressed MS Dhoni’s recent comment about focusing on building for the future if the playoffs slip away. Fleming acknowledged that this phase of transition could be important for the franchise. He pointed out that past seasons where CSK found themselves in a similar situation had eventually set them up for title wins in subsequent years.
“The work we did in the past when we were in this position has set us up to win the title the following year. We’re aware of what needs to be done and how we can go about it,” said Fleming.
Looking Ahead with Optimism
Despite the challenges, Fleming made it clear that CSK isn’t treating any match as a dead rubber. He emphasized that every opportunity would be seized and no game would be wasted. “There won’t be a wasted game or an opportunity in the next few weeks, and the players know that as well. This will create competition within the squad and ensure that no time goes to waste,” he concluded.
With a challenging road ahead, CSK’s determination and willingness to fight for a playoff spot remains unwavering. Whether they can replicate RCB’s 2024 comeback and make a dramatic run for the playoffs remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—CSK will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
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