Fleming confirms Stokes is still a week away from being match-fit

Chennai Super Kings are on a roll in this edition of the Indian Premier League as they recorded their fourth win in six matches with an emphatic seven-wicket victory against Sunrisers Hyderabad at home on Friday, April 21. 

A disciplined bowling performance combined with fireworks from Devon Conway powered the team over the line in this southern derby. In the post-match press conference, Stephen Fleming was a happy man after the all-around effort of the team. 

"We had a good win in Bangalore, and our last two-three days have been really positive. The process does not change, and we do a lot of work on our home conditions."

"We are not overly comfortable with the home conditions yet because we have not played here for a couple of years, and we try to learn as much as we can about the wicket," Fleming said. 

The former opening batter also heaped praises on Conway for his knock of unbeaten 77 runs that set the foundation for the home team in this 135-run chase. 

"Conway’s batting is what we expect. He thinks that he is out of form, but he keeps tuning out runs. Today his fifty was an absolute clinic to watch, especially that over against Marco Jansen. He’s really skilful, and the other thing is that he’s in a good spot, and it’s the combination with Ruturaj,” he said.

Fleming also confirmed that Chennai Super Kings would be without the services of Ben Stokes for another week as the all-rounder is recovering from an injury. 

"He had another little setback yesterday, so he will probably be a few days or a week away. It is a challenge, but the team is playing well. The first thing is him being fit, and then if we have a headache around selection, the nature of the IPL is that things happen."

"Our priority is to get him fit and ready to play. At the moment, he’s not quite ready, But as soon as he is, we’ll worry about the next part,” he further added. 

In the four-time champion's win on Friday, MS Dhoni earned plaudits for his wicket-keeping skills, but the Kiwi batter feels glovework comes very naturally to the Chennai skipper. 

"It’s a natural talent. I don’t think he gets enough credit for his keeping, but to be honest, he is an absolute craftsman, an absolute masterclass behind the stumps, and often goes unnoticed with all the things he does,” he concluded. 

Chennai Super Kings will now travel to Eden Gardens for an evening encounter against Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday, April 23.