Chennai Super Kings will begin their IPL 2015 campaign against the Delhi Daredevils tonight in Chennai. Their squad looks much the same as last season. In fact, they have bolstered their side with some experienced names like Irfan Pathan and Michael Hussey.
Stephen Fleming laid emphasis on the importance of having experienced players in the side who can guide the youngsters ahead of the Delhi Daredevils match.
Unfortunately, Pathan will not be available for the first game as he is not fit to play.
"Irfan Pathan is not fit and he will not be considered," said Fleming. "Irfan has the skills we were looking at – an all-rounder down the order who bowls left-arm seam, which we like.
"Irfan is not yet at that level of his career and he has got another chapter to write. What I bank on is the MS Dhoni and Raina factor.
"I like Irfan's skills and his attitude, and fitness is one thing we will work hard on. I like how he will fit into our side and he is a good addition for us."
While speaking about Mike Hussey, Fleming believes the Australian legend will make the younger players around him better.
"There are a couple of reasons why Mike is attractive to us," added the New Zealander. "One is that he is a wonderful player. He might be at the end of his career but his recent performance in the IPL and the Big Bash suggests that he has still got it.
"Just as important for us is his ability to communicate, particularly with the young Indian batsmen. Mike is excellent in that role. He is someone who wants to get into a bit of coaching and we will certainly utilize his mentoring abilities. Whether he plays or not, he is valuable to us."
