VIDEO | Fleming backs Khaleel after pacer concedes 33 runs in one over
VIDEO | Fleming backs Khaleel after pacer concedes 33 runs in one over
Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming threw his support behind pacer Khaleel Ahmed despite the bowler conceding 33 runs in the 19th over against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Saturday. Fleming, however, hinted at exploring other options for the death overs.
“Khaleel has done really well for us this season, so there’s no reason for MS to have changed that,” Fleming said, defending Dhoni’s call to hand Khaleel the penultimate over ahead of Anshul Kamboj, who had one over left.
“Kamboj is growing into his role nicely. He has the ability to do death. He will be an option going forward,” Fleming added.
Before Romario Shepherd’s assault, Khaleel had the highest dot-ball count in the IPL (110), ahead of Mohammed Siraj.
Fleming also rued the lack of a momentum-shifting over in the second half of CSK’s chase of 214. The side fell short by just two runs, finishing on 211/5.
“If there was a big over there we would have won. We maintained a good rate, but at the business end it was just one or two hits away,” he said.
While acknowledging CSK’s struggles, Fleming pointed to the emergence of young talent. “It’s not doom and gloom. We are unearthing talent and putting together evidence for a strong team next year,” he said.
Still, the close defeats have taken a toll. “It weighs heavy. Everyone involved is hurting. But we’re also looking ahead to make gains over the next three games.”
Published on May 04, 2025
