IPL 2025, LSG vs CSK: Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming stated that “MS Dhoni doesn’t have a magic wand,” as he called on his players to take greater responsibility and step up their game.
With CSK struggling for consistency, especially in the batting department, Fleming emphasized that the team cannot rely solely on Dhoni to rescue them every time. He stressed the importance of collective performance and urged the players to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure.
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CSK Eye Turnaround as MS Dhoni Returns to Captaincy
Chennai Super Kings, reeling from five consecutive losses in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, are in desperate need of a resurgence to keep their playoff hopes alive. With their next match against Lucknow Super Giants, the pressure is mounting. Head coach Stephen Fleming, speaking ahead of the clash, admitted that MS Dhoni’s return as captain won’t instantly transform the team’s fortunes.
Last week, Dhoni was reinstated as captain after Ruturaj Gaikwad was ruled out of the season due to a hairline fracture in his elbow. However, CSK’s struggles continued as they suffered an eight-wicket defeat against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders, pushing them to the bottom of the points table.
Fleming emphasized that a turnaround requires collective effort. “Dhoni’s influence will always be prominent, but he’s not a soothsayer, he hasn’t got a magic wand. He can’t just rub it over the side; otherwise, he would have brought it out earlier,” Fleming said at the pre-match press conference.
He added, “It’s a case of us working very hard along with MS to turn it around. Certainly, in both of our cricketing careers, we’ve faced situations that demand a lot of energy, and we need to ensure that energy is directed in the right place.”
‘There’s a lot of hurt’
The five-time champions have struggled to gain momentum during the powerplay, and the batting unit has underperformed. MS Dhoni’s batting position has also sparked discussions, with the former Indian skipper coming in as low as No.9 on two occasions.
“We have to take small steps and keep working to improve in all three departments—batting, bowling, and fielding. That’s how you start competing,” Fleming said. “What hurt the most in the last game was the lack of fight we showed, and that was deeply disappointing.”
He added, “There’s been a lot of internal reflection, but also a focus on what needs to be done. It’s crucial we deliver a performance that reflects the legacy and pride of this franchise. The pain of defeat can fuel our motivation, but it’s not about talking—it’s about players stepping up, rediscovering their form, and letting go of any hesitation that might be holding them back.”