stephen fleming csk coach

Stephen Fleming RESIGNS as CSK Coach, Three Strong Contenders To Replace Him

Monojit Das

Modified - Jul 13, 2026, 07:35 AM

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Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings are all set to undergo a massive transformation as their long-time head coach Stephen Fleming has resigned from his role. Fleming has been associated with the franchise right from the beginning and the recent developments mark an end to an era.

Under Fleming, CSK achieved unprecedented success and became one of the best teams in IPL history. But now, they will have to start from the scratch in order to become a top class team once again.

Why Did Stephen Fleming Leave CSK?

It was a mutual decision from Stephen Fleming and the CSK management to part ways with each other. The franchise put out a statement thanking the legendary coach for giving his valuable experience.

“The Super Kings and Stephen Fleming have decided to mutually part ways, bringing to a close one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in the history of the Indian Premier League. The decision was reached with respect and gratitude, following a series of open and honest discussions between Fleming and the Super Kings management,” CSK was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

Stephen Fleming CSK coach tenure will always be remembered for his enormous achievements for the franchse. The former New Zealand captain became CSK head coach in 2009 after playing in the inaugural edition of IPL in 2008.

Who Will Be CSK New Head Coach?

With no Fleming, Chennai Super Kings will have a big void to fill now. The franchise will be actively looking for Stephen Fleming replacement in order to prepare a strong core ahead of IPL 2027. Let's look at the three contenders who can become new CSK head coach for the next IPL season:

1. Michael Hussey - Hussey is currently CSK's batting coach. Like Fleming, he has been associated with the franchise since the beginning. Hussey played a key role in Chennai's title win in 2011 and served as the team's opener for a no. of years.

The former Australia batter became CSK batting coach in 2018 and since then, has played a key role in the franchise's remarkable achievements. Already seen as one of the best batsmen in IPL, Hussey has enormous experience of working in the league, which makes him a perfect contender for Chennai Super Kings new coach.

2. Hemang Badani - According to TOI, Hemang Badani is emerging as a strong contender for the role of CSK's new coach. Badani has the experience of serving as Delhi Capitals head coach. He joined the role ahead of IPL 2025 and while he is still DC's coach, he is likely to be removed ahead of the next season.

Bringing Badani into the equation means that the Super Kings would go with an Indian coach. Badani also has a good knowledge of local Indian players which can prove to be vital for CSK going forward.

3. MS Dhoni - Dhoni, one of the best players in IPL history, might also be in contention to become CSK new head coach. While the chances are quite less, Dhoni's association with the franchise is no less than a historic one.

However, he is still not officially retired and intends to play the next IPL season as well. Since he is at the final stages of his playing career, MS Dhoni might remain at the CSK team management, this time as the head coach.