Fleming steps down as CSK head coach after 18-year stint

Fleming steps down as CSK head coach after 18-year stintStephen Fleming has stepped down as head coach of Chennai Super Kings [CSK], bringing an end to a decorated 18-year coaching stint during which he oversaw five IPL and two Champions League T20 [CLT20] titles.

In a statement, the CSK franchise said they parted ways mutually, "bringing to a close one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in IPL history. The decision was reached with respect and gratitude, following a series of open and honest discussions between Fleming and the Super Kings management."

Speculation over Fleming's future as coach has been rife ever since the team ended their third successive season without a title. CSK finished eighth in IPL 2026 following on from a last-placed finish in 2025. After their final league game, Fleming had conceded that a decision over his future was the "management's call, not mine."

The announcement comes barely a few hours after the Fleming-helmed Texas Super Kings [TSK] finished last at the MLC 2026. In their statement announcing his departure, the franchise didn't mention whether Fleming was relinquishing his role as head coach of their other franchises - Joburg Super Kings [SA20] and TSK [MLC].

"Eighteen years is a lifetime in sport, and I leave with nothing but gratitude," Fleming said in a statement. "My time with Chennai Super Kings has been the privilege of my coaching career. I am proud of everything we have achieved. Together, we celebrated unforgettable victories, overcame difficult moments, and built memories that will stay with me forever. CSK will always be close to my heart, and I will be cheering the team on for years to come."

Fleming joined CSK as a direct player signing ahead of IPL 2008 and took over as head coach the following season. He formed a formidable working relationship with MS Dhoni and helped the team enter the playoffs a record 12 times. They also made a record ten appearances in the final.



"Stephen Fleming has been the heartbeat of our coaching unit for almost the entire journey of this franchise," CSK owner Rupa Gurunath said. "For nearly two decades, he has helped shape our identity, vision, and pursuit of excellence. While our journey together on the field comes to a close, he will always remain an integral part of the team's legacy."

KS Viswanathan, the CEO, was effusive in his praise of Fleming for helping "build a culture rooted in consistency, humility and putting the team first." He further said, "his ability to understand people and bring out the best from individuals across the team has been one of his greatest strengths. His influence extends far beyond the boundary, and we are proud to have shared this remarkable journey together."

CSK's back-to-back triumphs in 2010 and 2011, their title win in 2018 following their re-entry after a two-year ban and their win in 2023 after Dhoni took over the captaincy from Ravindra Jadeja midway through the previous season are among the highlights of Fleming's tenure.

The franchise has so far made no announcements regarding the immediate future of the other support staff members, including batting coach Mike Hussey and bowling coach Eric Simons.

-Cricinfo