Head coach Stephen Fleming parts ways with CSK (Photo - IPL)

A major change is on the cards at five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) following a disappointing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Head coach and legendary former player Stephen Fleming has decided to part ways with the franchise, stepping down from his role as head coach. Fleming had been associated with CSK since the very first season of the IPL and is regarded as one of the league's most successful coaches.

The Fleming-Dhoni partnership that delivered success

Fleming joined Chennai Super Kings as a player in IPL 2008. After playing one season, he took charge as the team's head coach in 2009. The Fleming-MS Dhoni combination went on to lead CSK to seven title triumphs — five IPL titles and two Champions League Twenty20 (CLT20) crowns. During his tenure, the side reached the playoffs 12 times and made it to the IPL final on 10 occasions, making CSK the most successful franchise in IPL history.

CSK owner Rupa Gurunath paid tribute to Fleming, saying he had been the heartbeat of the coaching unit throughout the franchise's journey and had helped shape its identity, approach and pursuit of excellence for nearly two decades. She expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the franchise for his commitment and leadership, adding that although his on-field journey with the team was ending for now, he would always remain an integral part of CSK's legacy.

Fleming's parting words

Reflecting on his departure, Fleming said that 18 years in sport was akin to a lifetime, and that he was leaving purely with a sense of gratitude. He described his time with Chennai Super Kings as the greatest journey of his coaching career, saying he was proud of everything the team had achieved together — celebrating unforgettable victories, weathering difficult periods, and creating memories that would stay with him forever. He added that CSK would always remain close to his heart and that he would continue to support the team in the years ahead.

CSK's recent struggles

CSK last won the IPL title in 2023, and the franchise's form has declined steadily since. The team has failed to qualify for the playoffs in the last three seasons — finishing fifth in 2024, bottom of the table in 10th place in 2025, and ending its 2026 campaign in eighth position. CSK have been crowned IPL champions five times in total, in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023.

Meta description (150 characters): Stephen Fleming steps down as CSK head coach after 18 years, ending an era that delivered five IPL titles alongside MS Dhoni.

Tags: Stephen Fleming, CSK, Chennai Super Kings, IPL 2027, MS Dhoni, IPL head coach, IPL news, cricket news, Rupa Gurunath, IPL coaching change

SEO-friendly headline URL:stephen-fleming-resigns-csk-head-coach-18-year-association-ends-ipl-2027