CSK coach Stephen Fleming addresses RCB's reliance on Virat Kohli
What's the story
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has answered questions about the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) reliance on star player Virat Kohli.
The question was raised before their South Indian derby match on March 28.
Kohli is playing his 18th IPL season for RCB and began the new campaign with an unbeaten 59 against Kolkata Knight Riders in the season opener.
"It's really hard to comment after just one game," Fleming said speaking at the pre-match press conference.
Performance
Kohli's impressive record against CSK
Virat Kohli has a stellar record against CSK, having scored 1,053 runs in 33 matches at an average of 37.60 with nine half-centuries.
This stat highlights Kohli's importance to RCB's batting, alongside captain Rajat Patidar.
Fleming was quizzed about this issue during a press conference ahead of the clash between the two sides.
"The competition is pretty even this year. If we keep him and Patidar quiet, then it will help us to win," said Fleming.
Coach's insight
Fleming's response to RCB's reliance on Kohli
Responding to the question if RCB was too reliant on Kohli and Patidar, Fleming said, "It's really hard to comment after just one game. The RCB and CSK from last year is quite different."
He added his team doesn't look at the past but admitted Kohli was a big part of RCB's plans.
Fleming also spoke about the overall strength of their team, saying "But they have strength in their team, like most franchises have."
Game plan
Fleming's strategy to neutralize Kohli and Patidar
Fleming feels if CSK can keep Kohli and Patidar quiet, they have a good chance of winning the game.
"The competition is pretty even this year. If we keep him and Patidar quiet, then it will help us to win," he said.
This statement highlights the significance of both players in the upcoming match between CSK and RCB.
Injury report
Update on Matheesha Pathirana's availability
Fleming also gave an update on Matheesha Pathirana's injury status.
The Sri Lankan pacer missed CSK's opening match against Mumbai Indians due to an injury.
Fleming confirmed that Pathirana is still recovering and won't be playing against RCB.
He hinted that there might not be any changes made to the lineup for the clash against RCB, further emphasizing his confidence in his current team composition.