CSK end 18-year association with Stephen Fleming

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.

Fleming first joined CSK as a player in the inaugural IPL season in 2008 before taking over as head coach the following year. He 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.

CSK's last title came in the 2023 season. They finished fifth in 2024, bottom in 2025, and eighth earlier this year.

Fleming also coached Super Kings teams in SA20 and MLC. Joburg Super Kings reached the playoffs in all four SA20 editions without making the final. Texas Super Kings reached playoffs in the first three MLC editions but never played in the final, and failed to make the playoffs in the 2026 edition.

Announcing the decision, CSK owner Rupa Gurunath said: "Stephen Fleming has been the heartbeat of our coaching unit… he has helped shape our identity, vision, and pursuit of excellence."

Fleming said: "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."

Managing Director KS Viswanathan highlighted the culture Fleming helped establish, saying: "He built a culture rooted in consistency, humility, and putting the team first."