CSK and Stephen Fleming part ways after 18 years

Five-time Indian Premier League champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and head coach Stephen Fleming have ended their 18-year association by mutual consent, the franchise announced on Monday, marking the end of one of the IPL's most enduring and successful partnerships.

The decision followed discussions between Fleming and the franchise management. The former New Zealand captain first joined CSK as a player in the inaugural 2008 season before taking over as head coach a year later.

Fleming guided CSK through a golden era, leading the team to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 crowns. Under his leadership, the franchise reached the playoffs a record 12 times and featured in 10 IPL finals.


CSK owner Rupa Gurunath thanked Fleming for his immense contribution to the franchise, acknowledging the role he played in shaping one of the league's most successful teams over nearly two decades.

"Stephen Fleming has been the heartbeat of our coaching unit for almost the entire journey of this franchise. 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,” she said.

CSK Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan said Fleming's influence extended well beyond on-field results, crediting him with establishing the culture that became synonymous with the franchise.

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

Reflecting on his departure, Fleming described his time with CSK as the defining chapter of his coaching career and thanked the franchise for nearly two decades of shared success.

"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,” Fleming said.

Fleming's departure marks the end of an era for Chennai Super Kings, with the former New Zealand captain having played a central role in building one of the IPL's most consistent and decorated franchises since its inception.