CSK Head Coach Stephen Fleming Reflects on Team’s IPL 2025 Struggles
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has offered a brutally honest assessment of his team’s performance in IPL 2025, accepting full responsibility for what has been one of the franchise’s worst seasons. With just three wins from 13 matches and languishing at the bottom of the points table, CSK has equaled its poorest campaign in IPL history.
Fleming Admits CSK Deserved Their Position
After CSK suffered a six-wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals in their penultimate game, Fleming acknowledged the team’s shortcomings with trademark candor.
“It’s probably fitting that we’re at the bottom. We’ve played that type of cricket, so you can’t hide away from it.”
The coach pointed out that although CSK had strong starts in some games, they consistently failed to capitalize on those foundations. In the match against Rajasthan, CSK managed only 17 runs in the final three overs, falling significantly short of a par score, which ultimately led to their defeat.
Lower Order and Team Balance Under Scrutiny
Fleming identified the composition of the lower order as a critical area of concern.
“Our lower order is not right at this stage, and that is something that we are always looking to rejig. We’ve got some strong ideas for next year, so that all facets are covered.”
He emphasized that this imbalance has cost the team crucial matches and acknowledged that adjustments in squad planning and tactical execution would be necessary heading into the 2026 season. The coach indicated that behind-the-scenes conversations had already started regarding restructuring the team for better all-round performance.
Focus on Finishing Strong and Rebuilding
Despite being mathematically out of playoff contention, Fleming urged his team to focus on ending the campaign with a win in their final game. The aim, he noted, was to salvage pride and carry positive momentum into the offseason.
The franchise’s underwhelming run this year also reignites speculation about potential leadership transitions and team overhaul strategies. While no formal announcements have been made regarding player retention or retirements, insiders suggest that the management may take a hard look at core squad dynamics post-season.
Looking ahead, Fleming and the CSK think-tank are expected to recalibrate their strategy around youth development, middle-order depth, and bowling consistency—areas that have repeatedly come under the scanner throughout this IPL edition.
