In a landmark development for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Stephen Fleming has stepped down as the franchise’s head coach after serving in the role for 16 seasons, bringing an end to one of the most successful partnerships in Indian Premier League (IPL) history.
CSK announced the decision in a statement on Monday, confirming that both parties had mutually agreed to part ways following discussions.
“The decision was reached with respect and gratitude, following a series of open and honest discussions between Fleming and the Super Kings management,” the franchise said.
The move marks the end of an era for the five-time IPL champions, with Fleming playing a pivotal role in establishing CSK as one of the league’s most consistent and successful franchises.
From Player to Legendary Coach
The former New Zealand captain first represented CSK during the inaugural IPL 2008 season, scoring 196 runs in 10 innings before taking over as head coach in 2009.
Over the next 16 seasons, Fleming transformed Chennai into one of the most dominant teams in T20 franchise cricket, forging a highly successful partnership with former captain MS Dhoni.
Decision Follows Disappointing IPL 2026 Campaign
Fleming’s departure comes after CSK endured a difficult IPL 2026 season.
The five-time champions finished eighth in the standings with six victories from 14 league matches, missing the playoffs once again. It was also the franchise’s second consecutive bottom-half finish, having ended last in the 2025 season.
Also Steps Down From Other Super Kings Franchises
Fleming has also relinquished his coaching responsibilities with the Joburg Super Kings in South Africa’s SA20 league and the Texas Super Kings, who compete in Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States.
Additionally, he coached the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant during the 2016 and 2017 IPL seasons when CSK served a two-year suspension.
Stephen Fleming’s Coaching Record with CSK
Fleming leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that includes:
- Longest-serving head coach in IPL history, spending 18 seasons in the league.
- Guided Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles, equalling the Mumbai Indians’ record for the most championships.
- Won two Champions League T20 titles with CSK in 2010 and 2014.
- Led the franchise to a record 12 IPL playoff appearances in 17 seasons.
- Guided CSK to 10 IPL finals, underlining the team’s remarkable consistency.
Stephen Fleming’s tenure helped define CSK’s identity, with the franchise becoming synonymous with stability, tactical excellence and sustained success. His departure closes one of the most iconic coaching chapters in IPL history.