‘MS Dhoni is fresh and ready to go,’ says CSK coach Stephen Fleming ahead of IPL 2020 season opener vs Mumbai Indians

MS Dhoni is fresh and ready to go: Super Kings’ head coach has expressed confidence in their legendary captain ahead of IPL 2020.

Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming believes that the IPL 2020 season opener against Mumbai Indians will be full of “anxiety and nerves” primarily due to the expectations which come together with what is known as the El Clasico in the Indian Premier League.

“The first game is always full of anxiety, nerves and excitement, and CSK-MI has added extra excitement and pressure and we enjoy that. We’ve earned the right to play the first game by playing well last year, and given the way the final finished last year, it’s nice to have another crack at MI.

“They are a very good side and it gives you a good gauge as to how the pre-season has gone and the areas that need improvement. You get a good idea after the first game as to where your team is sitting,” Fleming was quoted as saying on CSK’s website on the eve of the match.

While Super Kings would be confident about their chances knowing that Indians haven’t won their first match of the season since 2012, they would also be vary of their poor record against the arch-rivals in the last few seasons.

“MS Dhoni is fresh and ready to go”

Call it bias or admiration for the legendary player, fans around the country are also waiting for tomorrow as September 19 will end their wait for watching former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in action.

Dhoni, whose last competitive match dates back to July 10 last year, will have bountiful eyeballs upon himself throughout the season especially after retiring from international cricket last month. Being asked about the 39-year old player’s preparation, Fleming sounded affirmative about the same.

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It has been no different. He’s very fit and mentally he’s been very engaged and determined. In some ways the break can work for the experienced and older players that we have. MS is fresh and ready to go.