In the breaking of the longest-standing franchise-coach pairing in IPL history, and possibly in franchise cricket, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Stephen Fleming have decided to breakup.
CSK released a statement to confirm Fleming’s exit from the yellow camp of the IPL.
This news came only a few hours after the Texas Super Kings, CSK’s sister franchise, which is also coached by Fleming, finished in the bottom of the points table of the Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 in the USA.
CSK and Fleming attained great heights together. Fleming was a player for CSK in the inaugural IPL edition in 2008 and then turned coach in 2009 until IPL 2026. Fleming coached CSK to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies.
However, the results in recent years have been disappointing. CSK are in a transition phase, with the likes of Raina, Bravo, and Rayudu retiring and Dhoni relinquishing his captaincy duties.
When was the last time CSK reached the playoffs?
CSK won the IPL 2023 title under MS Dhoni. But CSK have failed to reach the playoffs in three consecutive IPL seasons in 2024, 2025, and 2026 under Gaikwad and Dhoni.
It was not revealed whether Fleming was sacked by CSK or the New Zealander decided to step down.
CSK said in a statement, “The Super Kings and Stephen Fleming have decided to mutually part ways, bringing to a close one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in the history of the Indian Premier League. The decision was reached with respect and gratitude, following a series of open and honest discussions between Fleming and the Super Kings management.”
It was also not revealed whether Fleming will step down or continue as the coach of CSK’s two other sister teams: Joburg Super Kings in SA20 and Texas Super Kings in MLC.
CSK will always be close to my heart: Stephen Fleming
Fleming made an emotional comment as his association with CSK comes to an end.
He said in the statement, “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.
“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.”
Stephen Fleming Leaves CSK: Who will be the new CSK coach?
After parting ways with Fleming, CSK will be on the lookout for a new coach ahead of the IPL 2027 mini auction. One of the names floated by the fans is Brendon McCullum, who recently was sacked as the England Test coach, though he will continue as England’s white-ball coach.
It is believed that the ECB are open to having their new Test coach work in the IPL as well, which could also open the doors for McCullum to moonlight in the IPL along with the England white-ball team. McCullum has previously played for CSK in the IPL.
Further, Mike Hesson and Rahul Dravid could also be approached to become the new CSK coach.
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