‘Some will giggle but…’ – Stephen Fleming believes CSK can still make it to the playoffs ahead of their game against SRH

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) coach Stephen Fleming is hopeful of making it to the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs. The five-time champions are bottom of the table with just four points from eight games and have the worst run-rate in the league. Chennai’s next game is against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Friday at the Chepauk Stadium. 

The loser of the game will be closer to exit from the tournament since SRH also have the same number of points from identical number of games played. Both sides played Mumbai Indians in their previous encounter and lost the game. Addressing the media, ahead of the game, Fleming said that he wanted his side to ape Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s come from behind run to make it to the playoffs. 

The former Kiwi skipper said “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, 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."

Huge test for MS Dhoni and his men to keep the season alive 

IPL 2025 season began with a win for CSK but was soon followed with string of losses. To make matters worse, Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the season due to injury which meant MS Dhoni was named the skipper. Dhoni began his third term as skipper with a loss to Kolkata before beating Lucknow away from home and then losing to Mumbai. 

Further addressing the media, Stephen Fleming said “And the work we did a couple of times, we were in this position in the past set us up to win the title the following year. So we're certainly aware of what needs to be done and how we can go about it," 

CSK’s coach ended by saying “And when that time comes, we will make sure there is no stone left unturned to get things right. 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”