Ahead of Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) second match against the Gujarat Titans (GT), head coach Stephen Fleming clarified that there wasn't a specific role defined for new skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, highlighting the need for a collective effort rather than placing the burden solely on him to score at the top of the order.
In CSK’s campaign opener, Gaikwad scored 15 runs while his opening partner Rachin Ravindra made a brisk 37 off 15 balls as the defending champions defeated the Royal Challengers Bengaluru by six wickets at Chepauk on Friday (March 22).
Asked if Gaikwad should take more responsibility as a batter, Fleming said, "It's (role) not defined like that. One day, a player will be better than the other, and Rachin (Ravindra) was the better man the other day (against RCB)."
Fleming expressed his willingness to experiment with the opening combination as the tournament progresses.
"It could be Ruturaj or another opening combination tomorrow. We're still early into the tournament, playing around with our combinations. We want the players to be positive. And, if they come around (performing) at the same time on any given day, that would be great," Fleming told reporters on the eve of the match against GT.
The head coach recalled how Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devon Conway had shared the opener's role last season, which played a major part in CSK clinching their fifth IPL title.
"Last season, Ruturaj and Devon Conway shared the role (of openers) and scored the runs. The volume of runs those two got last season was a big reason why we progressed through the competition," he added.
Fleming said he was impressed with the batting display against RCB, adding that the Impact Player rule made it look even better.
"Not sure, but I liked the intent of the batters (against RCB). We have a longer batting line-up with an extra player (Impact player)," he remarked. "You don't always get away with one big score. So, to have everybody contribute is a positive. It's not an easy game to play while chasing 175-plus.
"We don't know whose day it's going to be tomorrow. The players are training well for that occasion, and the intent that they have got is very encouraging."
Fleming praised the team's batting coach Michael Hussey for putting in the effort to "introduce" Ravindra to the squad.
"Part of introducing players to the squad involves getting them comfortable, and Mike Hussey works around that plan a lot. Predominantly, we ask the players to do what they would in a normal environment while playing during an overseas tour.
"That's what Rachin did. He played very well and stuck to his game. There were nerves around, which is common in the first game, and to put up a performance like that (against RCB) was very encouraging," he said.
Fleming also backed Rachin Ravindra as a spin option against Gujarat Titans. "Possibly. Conditions are pretty good at the moment, and his bowling is an asset for the team. So, definitely yes," he said.
The former New Zealand skipper also confirmed that Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana has recovered from a hamstring injury and is available for selection for the match against GT.
"He is certainly available for selection," said the head coach.
(With PTI inputs)
