Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing challenges in finding their ideal team combination and dealing with player unavailability, according to head coach Stephen Fleming. After their first home defeat against Lucknow Super Giants, Fleming expressed concerns about the team’s form and balance.
CSK made changes to their batting lineup, bringing back Daryl Mitchell and pairing him with Ruturaj Gaikwad at the top. However, the move failed to produce the desired results, with Mitchell and Ajinkya Rahane struggling. Fleming acknowledged the need to find the right combination and improve form.
Injuries to Matheesha Pathirana, Rahane, and Mustafizur Rahman have disrupted CSK’s balance. Mustafizur’s departure after May 1 will necessitate further adjustments. Devon Conway’s replacement, Richard Gleeson, is yet to join the squad.
Mitchell, who was acquired for a hefty sum at the auction, has struggled to find his footing. Fleming hopes that moving him up to No. 3, where he has had success for New Zealand, will improve his performance.
The surfaces in Chennai this season have not been as spin-friendly as in the past, affecting CSK’s strength in that department. Ravindra Jadeja and Moeen Ali bowled only two overs each against Lucknow Super Giants. Fleming expressed a desire for more assistance from the pitch, but emphasized the need to adapt to the conditions.
CSK’s next game against Sunrisers Hyderabad will be a test of their spin attack. SRH are missing Wanindu Hasaranga, and their Indian legspinner Mayank Markande has been expensive. CSK have a depth of spin options, but they will need to perform well to overcome SRH’s challenge.
