Chennai Super Kings felicitate Dhoni, Raina and Fleming: Details here
What's the story
Defending champions Chennai Super Kings went on to felicitate three of their old guards ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2019 season. Skipper MS Dhoni, coach Stephen Fleming and veteran batsman Suresh Raina were awarded after being the longest serving members of the franchise. All three have been associated with the team since 2008. Here's more.
Information
The three have been important for CSK's dominance
Fleming was a player for CSK and then became the coach in 2009. Along with Dhoni and Raina. he saw his side emerge IPL champions in 2010, 2011 and 2018. The franchise also won the Champions League Twenty20 in 2010 and 2014.
Impact
What has been the impact of Raina, MSD and Fleming?
Raina has gone on to make a serious impact for CSK. He has been the team's leading scorer over nine seasons. The southpaw represented Gujarat Lions in the two editions that CSK were suspended. Meanwhile, MSD has led the side to playoffs across the nine seasons. He has been a respected personality in the dressing room. Fleming has been a supreme commander as well.
Twitter Post
These lions have roared for the longest time
The Lions who've roared for the longest time being felicitated with all the #Yellove! #WhistlePodu 🦁💛 pic.twitter.com/oQ3pCELw3I
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 20, 2019
Favorites
CSK go into IPL 2019 as the favorites
CSK go into IPL 2019 as the favorites to retain the title. They will be expected to continue from where they left off in IPL 11. CSK played flawless cricket last season and defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad in the finale. The experienced side has plenty of match-winners in the ranks and that serves purpose. Players like Shane Watson can be the trump card for them.
Words
IPL 12: We prefer experienced players, says Fleming
CSK start their campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on Saturday, March 23. With IPL returning to Chennai, this is a massive moment for the fans. Coach Fleming said, "Our challenge is to win the Cup again. It's difficult, takes a lot of things to work for you. We prefer experienced players because they identify big moments. That's our challenge again."