CSK begin search for overseas head coach after Stephen Fleming leaves in July 2026

Chennai Super Kings have started the process of appointing a new head coach after ending their 18-year association with Stephen Fleming in July 2026, with the recruitment taking place ahead of the Indian Premier League 2027. The franchise confirmed Fleming’s exit and is now assessing candidates for the replacement.

Fleming had taken charge immediately after retiring as a player and completed an 18-year tenure with the Super Kings organisation, during which he led the Chennai side to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies. The franchise also severed ties with Fleming across its other Super Kings teams, including Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 and Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket. The decision followed a period in which Fleming endured difficult results with CSK and the other franchises in different competitions.

On-field outcomes in 2026 under Fleming included CSK finishing eighth in the IPL and Texas Super Kings occupying the bottom position in the 2026 MLC standings; Joburg Super Kings did not reach the SA20 final during Fleming’s four seasons with that team. Those results were cited as factors in the franchise’s decision to move on from Fleming.

According to a Cricbuzz report, CEO Kasi Viswanathan and director Rupa Gurunath will finalise the next head coach only after meeting with MS Dhoni and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. Viswanathan has indicated the franchise is seeking an overseas coach, and no replacement has been officially announced by CSK.

Media reports had earlier suggested former India batsman and Delhi Capitals coach Hemang Badani was in contention for the role, but those reports say the franchise is now prioritising overseas candidates once again. Hemang Badani was named in press speculation as one of the domestic options before the shift back to foreign prospects.

Ruturaj Gaikwad remains the team’s captain as the Super Kings restructure their coaching setup. The franchise last won the IPL in 2023 and would be looking to secure a sixth title under a new head coach.

Kasi Viswanathan and Rupa Gurunath are scheduled to meet MS Dhoni and Ruturaj Gaikwad before making a final decision on Fleming’s successor, a step the club says will determine their coaching appointment ahead of the IPL 2027 campaign.