CSK part ways with head coach Stephen Fleming

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have parted ways with their head coach, Stephen Fleming, after a disappointing IPL season, which saw them finish eighth with six wins and eight losses. The move brings an end to an 18-season-long partnership. Fleming had joined CSK as a player in the inaugural edition and took over as the head coach of the franchise in 2009.

Under Fleming's guidance, CSK won five IPL titles in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023 and two Champions League titles in 2010/11 and 2014/15.

The owner of Chennai Super Kings, Rupa Gurunath, extended her deepest gratitude for Fleming's unwavering commitment towards the franchise.

"Stephen Fleming has been the heartbeat of our coaching unit for almost the entire journey of this franchise," Gurunath said in a statement. "For nearly two decades, he has helped shape our identity, vision, and pursuit of excellence.

"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."

The managing director of CSK, Kasi Viswanathan, lauded Fleming for his man-management skills and credited him for laying down the foundation of the team and instilling consistency and humility in the dressing room.

"From the earliest days of this journey, Fleming helped define not just how we played, but what we wanted to be as a franchise," said Viswanathan. "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.

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

Fleming reflected fondly on his time at the franchise and called it a "privilege" to have served CSK as their head coach.

"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."