CSK Coach's Worries Highlighted Ahead of Crucial RCB Clash in IPL 2026

Original: "Even the coach was looking really worried" - Former MI player's huge remark ahead of RCB vs CSK IPL 2026 match

Sportskeeda•Apr 5, 20263 min

In a Nutshell

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming appeared stressed during a recent loss, as the team struggles at the bottom of the IPL 2026 table. Former player Zaheer Khan emphasized the challenges faced by skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and new recruit Sanju Samson, who has yet to find his form after a significant off-season transfer.

Key Points

01CSK currently sits at the bottom of the IPL 2026 table with no points.
02Head coach Stephen Fleming is under scrutiny following the team's poor start.
03Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad is facing immense pressure in a transitional phase.
04Sanju Samson has struggled to replicate his T20 World Cup form, scoring only 13 runs in two matches.
05CSK's performance against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will be crucial for their season.

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Full Summary

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing a challenging start to the IPL 2026 season, currently sitting at the bottom of the table with no points and a net run rate of -2.562. Former India bowler Zaheer Khan noted that head coach Stephen Fleming looked stressed during their recent loss to the Punjab Kings (PBKS), reflecting the team's struggles. CSK's skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, is under pressure as the franchise transitions following a disappointing tenth-place finish in 2025. Injuries to key players like Nathan Ellis, MS Dhoni, and Dewald Brevis have compounded their difficulties. Khan pointed out that the absence of MS Dhoni is significant, making it tough for Gaikwad to lead effectively. Additionally, Sanju Samson's transfer from the Rajasthan Royals (RR) has not yielded expected results, as he has only scored 13 runs in his first two matches for CSK. His poor record against RCB, with an average of 21.04 over 25 matches, raises further concerns ahead of their upcoming clash.

Key Figures

0

Points for CSK in IPL 2026 so far

-2.562

CSK's net run rate

13

Runs scored by Sanju Samson in his first two matches

21.04

Sanju Samson's average against RCB

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Why It Matters

CSK's struggles could affect fan support and attendance at matches, as expectations for the team are high.

Who is affected

CSK fans and stakeholders, including sponsors and players.

What to know

Fans should continue to support the team and attend matches to boost morale.

FAQ

Stephen Fleming is under scrutiny due to CSK's poor performance at the start of the IPL 2026 season, where they currently sit at the bottom of the table.

Ruturaj Gaikwad is facing challenges due to the team's transitional phase, the absence of MS Dhoni, and the pressure to improve after a poor previous season.

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