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Is CSK’s style of play outdated? Fleming fires back at reporters, Ruturaj says just 50 runs

CSK’s Stephen Fleming snaps at a journalist calling their game outdated, while Ruturaj Gaikwad’s “just 50 runs” remark leaves fans confused.

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Stephen Fleming, Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK’s outdated style, CSK Chepauk loss,

By Mohammad Javed Rasheedi

It was anything but a calm post-match press conference after Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) 50-run defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at Chepauk on Friday. When a journalist raised a pointed question about CSK’s approach being outdated,” the CSK head coach Stephen Fleming didn’t hold back.

In a post match conference, the journalist cited CSK’s slow chase of 156 in the first game and a score of 146 against RCB, asking Fleming if the team’s conservative batting approach was losing relevance in modern T20 cricket. Fleming, visibly annoyed, shot back:

The question that sparked it all?

“In the first game, you chased 156 in almost 20 overs. Today, you scored 146. I know this is your way of playing cricket, but do you think it’s kind of getting outdated?”

That didn’t go well with Fleming. His response? Sharp and direct: “What do you mean by my way of playing? We’ve got firepower all the way through. Just because we don’t swing from ball one… just wait till the end, see who wins. It is a positive brand of cricket. Don’t discount us.”

And when the journalist tried to clarify, Fleming shut it down: “You sort of are. Silly question.”

Chepauk advantage?

Interestingly, the loss was CSK’s first of the IPL 2025 season, and RCB’s first win at Chepauk since 2008. But Fleming says there’s no such thing as home advantage anymore. “We’ve told you for years — we can’t read these wickets. It’s not the Chepauk of old. We’re trying to figure it out every single game,” the CSK head coach admitted.

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s surprising take on loss

The CSK skipper believed 170 was a par score and blamed fielding errors for the defeat. “We dropped catches, gave away boundaries. The wicket wasn’t easy to bat on. But it wasn’t a huge loss… just 50 runs,” Gaikwad said.

Wait, just 50 runs?

That comment raised a few eyebrows, especially in the context of T20, where a 50-run margin is quite significant. Fans online were quick to call out the casual tone.

So, is CSK really outdated? Or just warming up the vintage engine?

One loss doesn’t define CSK — but the questions around their approach and consistency may linger. Are they ready to bounce back? Only time (and the next match) will tell. But if you’re planning to question Stephen Fleming again — maybe bring a helmet.

What’s next for CSK?

As they prepare to travel to Guwahati for their next match, Gaikwad said the focus is clear: “We need major improvement in fielding. It’s about turning up mentally strong and fixing the areas we’re lacking in.”

Cricket news

Who is Praful Hinge? Young pacer who made instant impact with match-turning IPL debut spell

Praful Hinge grabbed attention with a three-wicket over on his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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Praful Hinge bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL

Praful Hinge is an emerging Indian fast bowler who grabbed attention after a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, the young pacer made headlines by taking three wickets in a single over, a rare and impactful feat in T20 cricket.

His performance came against Rajasthan Royals, where he turned the game with a decisive spell, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Domestic cricket background

Hinge hails from Nagpur and has been associated with the Vidarbha cricket team in domestic cricket. Like many cricketers rising through India’s competitive system, his progress at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL opportunity.

While detailed statistics from his domestic career remain limited in public reports, his selection in the IPL reflects recognition of his potential and performances.

Bowling style and strengths

Praful Hinge is a right-arm fast bowler known for:

  • Maintaining a disciplined line and length
  • Ability to generate movement off the pitch
  • Effectiveness in short, impactful spells

His debut spell highlighted composure under pressure, especially in a high-intensity league like the IPL.

Breakthrough IPL moment

Making an immediate impact in the IPL is never easy, but Hinge’s three-wicket over on debut stands out as a defining moment. Performances like these often play a key role in shaping a young cricketer’s early career and gaining attention from teams and selectors.

A promising start

Praful Hinge’s debut has positioned him as a young fast bowler to watch. While it is still early in his career, such impactful performances suggest potential for further opportunities in domestic and franchise cricket.

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At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi eyes India debut, could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may soon make his India debut after a standout IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals.

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Rising cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is reportedly on the verge of earning his first senior India call-up following an impressive run in IPL 2026. The 15-year-old batter has been shortlisted for the upcoming India tour of Ireland, according to multiple reports.

The young Rajasthan Royals player has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about talents this season, delivering impactful performances that have caught the attention of selectors.

Strong performances boost selection chances

Sooryavanshi’s explosive batting in IPL 2026 has played a key role in pushing his case for national selection. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenager has consistently taken on top bowlers with confidence, showcasing both aggressive stroke play and maturity beyond his age.

Reports suggest he is among several young players being monitored for India’s Ireland tour, with selectors looking to test emerging talent in a relatively shorter series.

Could become youngest India debutant

If selected and given an opportunity, Sooryavanshi could script history by becoming one of the youngest players to represent India at the international level. At just 15, he would surpass long-standing age records set by former greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16.

The potential milestone has added further excitement around the youngster, whose rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket has been closely followed by fans and experts alike.

Future tours also on radar

Apart from the Ireland series, reports indicate that Sooryavanshi could also be considered for other upcoming assignments later in 2026, including a possible tour of Zimbabwe. His consistent performances and fearless approach have made him a strong contender for continued inclusion in India’s plans.

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Cricket news

Guwahati weather poses threat to RR vs MI blockbuster as rain delays toss

The IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians faces a delay as the Guwahati weather brings persistent rain to the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.

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Guwahati weather

The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) has hit a weather hurdle. Scheduled to take place at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the toss for Match 13 has been officially delayed due to persistent rain in the city.

Rain intensifies at Barsapara Stadium

The Guwahati weather has taken a turn for the worse as heavy drizzle forced the groundstaff to keep the pitch and square under covers. While the rain had momentarily eased, allowing for a brief inspection, it returned shortly after, frustrating both fans and players. According to media reports, the probability of rain during match hours has surged to nearly 50%, a significant increase from earlier forecasts.

Cut-off time and over reductions

As the clock ticks, the pressure on the match officials increases. Overs were scheduled to start being reduced from 8:40 PM IST. For those hoping for at least a shortened game, the cut-off time for a minimum five-over-a-side contest has been established at 10:56 PM IST. The city remains under a weather alert, with cloud cover expected to be a major factor throughout the evening.

High-stakes encounter on hold

Rajasthan Royals enter this game with a perfect record, having won their first two matches of the season. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, are looking to bounce back after a mixed start. A key highlight of this match is the potential battle between 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the experienced Jasprit Bumrah.

Historically, the two teams share a fierce rivalry, with Mumbai holding a slight edge with 16 wins compared to Rajasthan’s 14 in their 31 previous meetings.

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