'Irrelevant': CSK head coach Stephen Fleming reacts to criticism on Ashwin’s YouTube channel

NEW DELHI: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Stephen Fleming has responded sharply to criticism directed at his team on Ravichandran Ashwin’s YouTube channel after their defeat to Delhi Capitals (DC) on Saturday. In a post-match press conference, Fleming appeared surprised when asked about the remarks, admitting he didn’t even know Ashwin had a YouTube channel.The controversy arose after a video featuring former RCB analyst Prasanna Agoram, popularly known as Pdogg, aired on Ashwin’s channel.During the episode, Pdogg questioned CSK's decision to play Afghanistan spinner Noor Ahmad over veterans like Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin himself. The video was later taken down, sparking curiosity and speculation among fans and the media.When asked about the criticism, Fleming responded with calm dismissal: “I have no idea. I didn’t even know he had a channel, so I don’t follow that stuff. That’s irrelevant.” The incident comes at a tough time for CSK, who suffered their third consecutive loss in IPL 2025 after going down to Delhi Capitals (DC) by 25 runs at Chepauk — their first defeat to DC at home in 15 years. With this victory, DC topped the points table, while CSK find themselves under pressure in the mid-table shuffle.Despite a solid start by DC, thanks to KL Rahul’s composed 77 and some finishing firepower from Tristan Stubbs, CSK faltered in the chase. Star players like Devon Conway, Shivam Dube, and Jadeja failed to convert, while MS Dhoni’s late cameo couldn’t turn the tide.As questions swirl around CSK’s team selection and performance, Fleming’s dismissive stance signals the team’s intent to stay focused on the field -- not the noise off it.