As Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have parted ways with their long-serving head coach Stephen Fleming ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL 2027), several other personnel from the exciting coaching set-up are also likely to make an exit. After Fleming, bowling coach Eric Simmons could be the next player to shake hands with the franchise.
Over the last few seasons, the franchise has been going through a transition, where Stephen Fleming was one of the main parts of the setup that served the franchise for almost a few decades. According to the franchise, the decision to drop the former New Zealand international was taken through mutual agreement.
Why did CSK suddenly remove Stephen Fleming?
Following Fleming’s departure, the franchise is expected to take several other important decisions to shape the team in the ongoing transitional phase.
According to the Cricbuzz report published on July 13 last month, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan had informed that Fleming will remain with them for at least one more year. If reports are to be believed, CSK sacked its coach just a few weeks after the CEO’s assurance.
It is believed that Texas Super Kings’ poor form in the Major League Cricket (MLC) this season, with seven defeats in 10 matches, could have been the moment of truth for the former cricketer. In IPL 2026, Super Kings finished at the bottom of the points table, and on the other hand, in MLC 2026, they are the bottom team in the 6-team league.
After the departure of Stephen Fleming, bowling and batting coach may also be out.
According to media reports, as the franchise is considering some reforms in its core group, bowling coach Eric Simmons may also leave the franchise, throwing doubt on batting coach Mike Hussey’s future with the Yellow Brigade.
“It wouldn’t be a surprise if bowling coach Eric Simmons is named next. There’s no word yet on batting coach Mike Hussey, but the Super Kings are headed for a major shake-up,” reports Cricbuzz.
A source close to CSK related to the development has said that the franchise had shown enough time and trust in Stephen Fleming over the years. In return, the franchise has been disappointed in recent times. It was clear from the points table over the past few seasons that CSK were not performing well under the veteran coach, who joined Chennai Super Kings as a player in the inaugural season of the IPL.
“He should step down voluntarily. He has earned enough with the franchise – much more than he could have earned as a New Zealand player or in any other role within the game,” the source told the cricket news website.
Who will be the next head coach of CSK?
It was also understood that Fleming was enjoying the support of MS Dhoni, who remains a stalwart of the franchise. As Dhoni gradually found himself out of the team, the performance of the Stephen Fleming-led team declined.
The franchise has not yet decided who will replace Fleming. There are some names in speculation like Hemang Badani and Rahul Dravid, but the franchise is yet to finalize their next appointment.
