IPL 2018: Chennai Super Kings need to be sharp in fielding - Michael Hussey

Chennai Super Kings, who have already qualified for the IPL 2018 play-offs, need to sharpen their death bowling and fielding against Delhi Daredevils as the tournament enters the business end.

Chennai Super Kings have several players who are over 30 years of age, including their skipper MS Dhoni (36), Shane Watson (36), Dwayne Bravo (34), Ambati Rayudu (32), Harbhajan Singh (37) and Imran Tahir (39) to name a few. (IPL 2018 FULL COVERAGE)

Chennai Super Kings batting coach Michael Hussey has said that fielding is one area where the team has to be smart with and make sure they are doing the right things. (AFP)

Looking at the age composition in the squad, the team’s batting coach Michael Hussey has said Chennai Super Kings need to be smart when it comes to honing the team’s fielding. “The one trade-off in having an older, experienced team is sometimes we have a few slower players on the field. That is one area where we have to be smart with and make sure we are doing the right things. We must be workmanlike. We will never be the most dynamic fielding unit,” Hussey said in the pre-match press conference at the Ferozeshah Kotla on Friday.

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Age not a factor

However, Hussey was quick to point out that age was not a factor when it comes to Twenty20s. When the IPL 2018 player auctions had ended, Chennai Super Kings were labelled the ‘Dad’s Army’ for selecting many players over the age of 30. Hussey had a different take to the age factor.

“Personally, for me, age is an advantage. Experience plays a big role in Twenty20 cricket. Most of the guys in the line-up have been in so many different pressure situations and they are able to handle them. Having that experience is a big positive,” Hussey said.

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Lot at stake

The Chennai Super Kings vs Delhi Daredevils encounter has little at stake for both teams. Dhoni’s side has qualified for the play-offs while DD will end up with the wooden spoon. However, Hussey stated that there was plenty at stake for the two-time IPL champions.

“If we win this match, we are guaranteed a top-two spot. That is what the team is aiming for. I think it gives us the advantage to finish in the top two as it gives you the double chance. If you win the first match, then you directly go through to the big final. That is what we are hoping for,” Hussey said.