CSK part ways with Stephen Fleming after 18-year association — Coach in line to join setup

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have decided to part ways with their head coach, Stephen Fleming, ending their 18-year-long relationship as both took the decision after mutual agreement. The decision was taken after the side described a series of ‘honest discussions’ between the CSK management and Fleming.  

Fleming joined the Super Kings in the very first season of the event in 2008 as a batter before taking over as the head coach in the following year. Between 2009 and 2026, he made the strongest bond with MS Dhoni, the CSK captain, as the franchise earned massive success, having won five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 crowns. 

Stephen Fleming and CSK mutually part ways after 18 years — What happened

Fleming also coaches the Super Kings’ other franchises in the Major League Cricket (MLC) and SA20. In the SA20, the Joburg Super Kings reached the playoffs in all four editions without making the final. However, his relationship in MLC has also ended after failing to qualify for the playoffs in the 2026 edition.

The CSK owner, Rupa Gurunath, has paid tribute to the contribution of Fleming to the franchise. She thanks the vision and excellence of the former New Zealand captain in this process.

“Stephen Fleming has been the heartbeat of our coaching unit for almost the entire journey of this franchise. For nearly two decades, he has helped shape our identity, vision, and pursuit of excellence. On behalf of everyone at the Super Kings franchise, we extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering commitment, passion, and leadership.” The CSK owner expressed.

Fleming reflected on the relationship he had with the franchise since 2008. He called it a privilege to be part of the franchise for such a long time.

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“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.” Flemming addressed.

“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 built a culture rooted in consistency, humility, and putting the team first. His ability to understand people and bring out the best from individuals across the team has been one of his greatest strengths.” He added.

Stephen Fleming's success as CSK coach: Five titles and a golden era, explained

Fleming coached the CSK side between 2009 and 2015 and 2018 to 2026. Even when the franchise was suspended for two seasons in 2016 and 2017, he coached the Rising Pune Supergiants, continuing his relationship with the former Indian captain, MS Dhoni. 

CSK reached the IPL finals 10 times under Fleming’s coaching. One of the strong theories of the franchise under his coaching was backing the veteran players and continuing the same success over the years. He built a strong team culture, centered on trust and role clarity.

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But a change is needed before 2027, and if the reports are to be believed, then the franchise may move to Hemang Badani for the role, who coached the Delhi Capitals (DC) in 2025 and 2026.