Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has decided to part ways with the team after 18 years by mutual consent.
Stephen Fleming parted ways with Chennai Super Kings.
Chennai Super Kings and head coach Stephen Fleming have decided to part ways after an 18-year association. The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise released an official statement on Monday, announcing that both parties have mutually decided to end the partnership. Chennai Super Kings last won the IPL title in 2023. Following this, the team failed to qualify for the playoffs in the 2024, 2025, and 2026 seasons. Due to his consistently poor performance, questions have been raised about Stephen Fleming's future for some time. Now, the franchise has decided to part ways with the former New Zealand captain.
CSK issued a statement and gave information
Chennai Super Kings said in its official statement, 'Super Kings and Stephen Fleming have mutually decided to part ways, bringing to an end one of the most successful and longest-standing partnerships in the history of the Indian Premier League.'
The franchise further said, 'This decision was taken after several open and honest discussions between Fleming and the Super Kings management, with mutual respect and gratitude.'
Stephen Fleming joined the Chennai Super Kings as a player in the IPL's inaugural season (2008). He then assumed the role of head coach in 2009. Under his leadership, CSK established itself as one of the most successful and respected teams in franchise cricket over the next 17 years. During Fleming's tenure, the Chennai Super Kings won five IPL titles and two Champions League Twenty20 trophies. The team reached the playoffs 12 times and played in the IPL final 10 times.
Following the announcement of Fleming's departure, CSK owner Rupa Gurunath praised his contributions. She said, "Stephen Fleming has been the heartbeat of our coaching unit for almost the entire journey of this franchise. For nearly two decades, he played a key role in shaping our identity, our vision, and our culture of excellence."
He added, "On behalf of the Super Kings franchise, we express our heartfelt gratitude for his dedication, passion, and leadership. While our association on the field may be coming to an end, he will always remain an integral part of our legacy."
Franchise Managing Director KS Viswanathan said, "From the very beginning of this journey, Fleming not only shaped our playing style, but also our identity as a franchise. He instilled a culture of consistency, humility, and a constant focus on the team. His ability to understand players and bring out the best in each one was one of his greatest strengths." He added, "His influence was not limited to the field. We are proud to have been a part of such a remarkable journey with him."
Bidding farewell to the franchise, Fleming said, "Eighteen years in the world of sports is a lifetime, and I leave with nothing but gratitude. My time with Chennai Super Kings has been the greatest privilege of my coaching career. Together, we achieved many memorable victories, faced difficult times, and created memories that will remain with me forever. CSK will always be close to my heart, and I will continue to support this team for years to come."
