Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has been one of the most successful franchises in the history of the Tata Indian Premier League (IPL). The five-time champions are going through a tough phase as they have failed to qualify for the playoffs in consecutive seasons. The men in yellow are going through a transformation under the leadership of Ruturaj Gaikwad. Meanwhile, the management has decided to retain head coach Stephen Fleming.
Stephen Fleming, who led one of the most successful eras in IPL history, will remain the head coach, reports Cricbuzz. The former New Zealand captain, who has been with CSK since 2008 and has been serving as the head coach since 2009, has been retained by the franchise despite recent rumors of him leaving the franchise.
Stephen Fleming will remain the head coach of CSK
There was speculation about the coaching setup of Chennai Super Kings after a disappointing season. They finished 8th on the points table in IPL 2026 with 12 points, losing 8 games and winning only 6. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s team has been struggling over the past few seasons, as they finished fifth in 2024 and bottom in 2025, their worst seasons ever.
Chennai fans were apparently unhappy with Fleming as coach and wanted the management to remove him. “Sack flaming” campaigns were also viral on social media. However, with Fleming remaining in charge and head coach for at least the next season, the five-time winners are not expected to change their decision.
Is MS Dhoni influencing CSK management?
The developments show that MS Dhoni’s influence continues in the team, as Dhoni has a wonderful relationship with Fleming, which has grown stronger over the years. The former CSK captain used to form the side earlier and informed the management to invest in experienced cricketers.
Stephen Fleming currently serves as the head coach of the Texas Super Kings, which features in Major League Cricket (MLC). He also serves as the head coach of Joburg Super Kings (JSK) in the SA20 League. He has been at the helm of the Johannesburg-based franchise since the inaugural season, taking advantage of his long-standing association with Chennai as both the teams are franchises with the same owner.
Meanwhile, the franchise has received some trade offers. There were rumors on Monday that CSK and Delhi Capitals could consider deals for Khaleel Ahmed and David Miller, but both the franchises have strongly rejected it. Since Miller has been an important part of the Capitals team and has been anchoring their middle order.
A full review of Chennai is expected after the conclusion of MLC. But there will be no change in coaching. The yellow team is in dire need of someone in the middle order as they have collapsed in the same position in the last few seasons.
Many more to follow……