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Chennai Super Kings have failed to kick off the IPL 2026 season in a positive fashion, as Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side have lost three games on the trot and are currently reeling at the bottom of the points table.
Stephen Fleming relies heavily on MS Dhoni?
Recently, former India cricketer Sadagoppan Ramesh has raised questions over the coaching acumen of the side's head coach Stephen Fleming who has been with the franchise since 2009. Interestingly, Fleming enjoyed a highly successful stint as CSK's head coach during MS Dhoni's captaincy from 2008 to 2023.
Sadagoppan Ramesh claimed that Stephen Fleming has not achieved anything without MS Dhoni, as he is completely dependent on the former India skipper.
"Fleming has never had any success anywhere without Dhoni captaining the side. It's clear that Fleming's success hinges completely on Dhoni. With the way the game is evolving, just like how a player's fit is analysed, the coach must be given the same treatment," Ramesh said on his official Instagram handle.
Ramesh also claimed that Fleming does not possess the coaching mindset to find success in the modern T20 era, where batters always look to attack the bowler.
"Stephen Fleming doesn't seem to have the mindset to adapt to today's aggressive game. He seems to be five steps behind,” concluded Ramesh.
CSK's poor campaign in IPL 2026
This has been one of the worst starts for Chennai Super Kings in an Indian Premier League season. It is their second-longest losing streak at the beginning of a campaign. Their worst start came in 2022, when they lost their first four matches. Last season was also difficult, as they won their opening game but then lost the next five, finishing with just four wins in 14 matches.
Next Challenge for CSK
Chennai Super Kings will look to clinch their first win in the tournament when they face Delhi Capitals on Saturday, April 11. So far in IPL 2026, CSK sit at the bottom of the points table, yet to open their account.
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