Stephen Fleming steps down as CSK head coach

Stephen Fleming's 18-year association with Chennai Super Kings has come to an end after the franchise and the long-serving head coach mutually agreed to part ways. Following what the franchise described as a series of "open and honest discussions" between Fleming and CSK management, the decision was made. Fleming first joined CSK as a player in the inaugural IPL season in 2008 before taking over as head coach the following year. From 2009 to 2026, Fleming, who forged a strong bond with MS Dhoni, oversaw one of the league's most sustained periods of success, guiding the franchise to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 crowns. During Fleming's tenure, CSK reached the playoffs a record 12 times and qualified for 10 IPL finals, cementing their reputation as one of the competition's most consistent teams. After finishing ninth in the previous year, CSK won its last title in 2023. In the 2024 season, they were fifth, and in the 2025 season, they were last. They had another forgettable edition earlier this year, finishing eighth. Fleming also coached Super Kings teams in the SA20 and MLC during this time. In SA20, Joburg Super Kings have made it to the playoffs in each of the four editions, but not to the final. They also made it to the playoffs in the first three MLC seasons, but never to the final. The Texas Super Kings failed to make the playoffs during Fleming's final season with a Super Kings team in the MLC in 2026, when they finished last in the table. Rupa Gurunath, the owner of CSK, paid tribute to Fleming's contribution to the franchise when she announced the decision. "Throughout the majority of this franchise's history, Stephen Fleming has been the beating heart of our coaching staff. She stated, "He has helped shape our identity, vision, and pursuit of excellence for nearly two decades." "On behalf of everyone at the Super Kings franchise, we extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering commitment, passion, and leadership. While our journey together on the field comes to a close, he will always remain an integral part of the team's legacy." Fleming reflected on an association that began with the franchise's inception in 2008. "I leave with nothing but gratitude because 18 years is a lifetime in sport. My coaching career has been blessed by my time with Chennai Super Kings. Fleming stated, "I am proud of everything we have accomplished." "We shared memorable victories, triumphed over challenging times, and created memories that I will never forget." CSK will always be close to my heart, and I will be cheering the team on for years to come." Managing Director KS Viswanathan highlighted the culture Fleming helped establish at the franchise. "From the earliest days of this journey, Fleming helped define not just how we played, but what we wanted to be as a franchise. He established a culture of consistency, humility, and prioritizing the team. "One of his greatest strengths has been his ability to understand people and bring out the best in everyone on the team," Viswanathan stated. "We are proud to have shared this remarkable journey together, and his influence extends far beyond the boundary."