Stephen Fleming steps down as the head coach of the Chennai Super Kings after 17 years
The franchise hadn't qualified for the playoffs in three successive seasons(2024,2025, 2026) which is something that would have surprised any fan back in 2013.
After 18 years, coach Stephen Fleming and Chennai Super Kings have mutually decided to part ways in a statement released by the team on Monday. Under the former New Zealand captain, CSK had won 5 IPL titles(2010,2011, 2018, 2021, 2023). Yet, these last few years have been absolutely dismal. The franchise hadn't qualified for the playoffs in three successive seasons(2024,2025, 2026) which is something that would have surprised any fan back in 2013.
These repeated failures had brought questions upon Fleming's reign hence, this decision. Both parties confirmed that there was no coercion and that they mutually agreed to this after an "open and fair" discussion.
In the release, CSK stated, "The decision was reached with respect and gratitude, following a series of open and honest discussions between Fleming and the Super Kings management."
Fleming joined the franchise as a player in 2008 and was appointed its head coach in 2009.Under him, the Super Kings won 5 IPL trophies and 2 Champions League trophies. They also qualified for a record 12 times while also being part of 10 IPL finals.