Worried Fleming says CSK are still 'grappling' to find their best line-up

Concerned Fleming Admits CSK Still Struggling to Find Right Balance Amid Rocky Start

After suffering three consecutive defeats in IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings have been forced into uncharacteristic chopping and changing. But despite using 17 players—including all seven overseas options—in just four games, head coach Stephen Fleming concedes that CSK are still “grappling” with their ideal combination.

"It's a conundrum," Fleming said after CSK's 25-run loss to Delhi Capitals in Chennai. "To get more solidity at the top, we have to leave out an overseas player, so we're still trying to find the right mix. When results don’t go your way, you start questioning and re-evaluating those decisions."

In stark contrast to their usual selection stability, CSK have now fielded more players than any other team this season. But with an underperforming top order and a misfiring middle, their struggles continue to mount.

Powerplay Woes Prompt Selection Shuffles

CSK’s powerplay scoring rate is currently the lowest in the tournament, prompting the recall of Devon Conway to partner Rachin Ravindra at the top, at the cost of Rahul Tripathi. They also brought in Indian pacer Mukesh Choudhary for allrounder Jamie Overton. Neither move paid off. Conway failed again, and Choudhary went wicketless for 50 in his four overs.

"We felt going too hard in the powerplay wasn't the answer, especially on slower surfaces like ours," Fleming explained. "We’re trying to bring in players who’ve done it before and are in good touch, but in the end, it's about producing runs. You can plan all you want, but unless one or two batters deliver those big scores, you can’t build around them."

Batting Breakdown and Missed Opportunities

Following their heaviest-ever loss at Chepauk against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, CSK once again crumbled under pressure, managing just 69 for 4 in 10 overs while chasing 184 against Delhi. By the time MS Dhoni entered in the 11th over, the required rate had ballooned past 12.

Vijay Shankar, promoted up the order, endured a painful stay at the crease, unable to find any rhythm, while Dhoni couldn’t ignite a late surge either.

"The pitch slowed down as expected, and DC’s bowlers executed their plans better," Fleming noted. "Vijay struggled for timing throughout, and from overs 12 to 16, it just slipped away. It was tough to watch, and even tougher out in the middle."

Stagnant Chasing Record Raises Red Flags

CSK have now failed to chase down a 180+ total in their last 10 attempts since 2020—an alarming stat not lost on their coach.

"Yes, that’s a concern," Fleming admitted. "We’re putting a lot of focus into restricting teams below that threshold, but we also need our batters—particularly the top four—to step up. If you look at the teams performing well, their top order is doing the bulk of the scoring. That allows the finishers to come in and play their role more effectively."

He also acknowledged the form dip in key players: "We’re having to introduce players at the wrong moments. Dube is close to rediscovering form, but we’re still not quite getting over the line."

Catch the match live updates, highlights, and full match coverage on CricRadio. Get fast, accurate, and ad-free updates throughout the game. Download the CricRadio app from the Play Store to stay connected. You can also get the live scores of cricket series directly on the CricRadio website for real-time coverage.