CSK end 18-year association with Stephen Fleming

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. The decision was taken after what the franchise described as a series of "open and honest discussions" between Fleming and the CSK management.

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.

CSK's last title came in the 2023 season, having finished ninth in the year before that. They finished fifth in the 2024 season while ending at the bottom position in 2025. Earlier this year, they had another forgettable edition, finishing eighth.

Meanwhile, Fleming also coached the Super Kings teams in the SA20 and the MLC. In SA20, Joburg Super Kings reached the playoffs in all four editions so far, without making the final. They also reached the playoffs in the first three editions of the MLC but never played in the final. In the 2026 edition of the MLC, which turned out to be Fleming's last stint with a Super Kings team, Texas Super Kings failed to make the playoffs as they finished at the bottom of the table.

Announcing the decision, CSK owner Rupa Gurunath paid tribute to Fleming's contribution to the franchise. "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," she said.

"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. "Eighteen years is a lifetime in sport, and I leave with nothing but gratitude. My time with Chennai Super Kings has been the privilege of my coaching career. I am proud of everything we have achieved," Fleming said.

"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."

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 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," Viswanathan said.

"His influence extends far beyond the boundary, and we are proud to have shared this remarkable journey together."