‘We want to make sure we realise the potential that he’s got’- Stephen Fleming opens up about young Chennai player
Stephen Fleming (Image source- BCCI/IPL)
The Ravindra Jadeja-led Chennai team have faced some troubles to get the big wins in the Indian T20 League 2022. They have played eight games in the season and have won only two of them. The men in yellow currently stand ninth on the points table.
While a handful of players have appeared in the team’s eight games so far, Rajvardhan Hangargekar is yet to make his debut with the franchise. The youngster was acquired by Chennai during the mega auction for INR 1.5 crore, and many expected him to play a part for the team this season.
Stephen Fleming, who happens to be the head coach of the four-time champions, has now spoken about the young talent missing out on the games for the team. The former Kiwi player suggested that they are aware of the skills he possesses, but they do not wish to throw him in the danger as yet.
“You have to be very careful. I know he’s (Rajvardhan) performed at the Under-19 level but this is a step up. We’re very conscious of the skills that he needs to perform. We don’t wanna just throw him in and damage him. We want to make sure we realise the potential that he’s got,” Fleming was quoted saying by Chennai’s official website.
He also mentioned that while the young player has a good speed, he would need to learn how to utilise it for the big stage. The head coach also intimated that he will make his debut if the chance presents itself.
“He’s on an excellent program with us. He’s played some big games already. If the opportunity arises this year, we’ll put him in. The pace is one thing, how to use it and bowl on the big stage is very important. We’re not gonna mess around with a talent like him,” he said
Meanwhile, Chennai will play their next game on the 1st of May against Hyderabad at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune.
