Chennai Super Kings head coach Stephen Fleming has dismissed the idea that he is not receiving sufficient recognition for the franchise’s sustained success, choosing instead to emphasise the role played by the players and the enduring influence of long-time captain MS Dhoni. Fleming has been leading CSK since 2009, after first taking part in the tournament as a player during the opening edition of the IPL. Over the years, his stewardship has helped build one of the most decorated phases in franchise cricket: CSK have won five IPL titles and also lifted two Champions League trophies. Yet after a run of disappointing results during IPL 2026, his position has faced fresh debate. Ahead of CSK’s fourth match of the season—an outing that comes with the side still searching for their maiden win—Fleming struck a steady tone and redirected attention back to performance.
“It’s really the players,” Fleming said before CSK’s fourth game of IPL 2026 as they chase their first victory. He also spoke about Dhoni’s impact, describing it as a privilege to have worked alongside one of the sport’s most respected leaders. Fleming argued that coaching is only part of the equation: the crucial factor is what happens on the field. “For me, it’s just another year of coaching, and it’s always been like that. The players do the work. The off-field support matters a great deal, but it’s the performances on the field that win trophies. Yes, we have a role in player fitness, player output and the mental side, but in the end coaches are evaluated through the players. I’ve been lucky to work with one of the greatest captains ever, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, but I’m not someone who craves personal accolades,” he added.
Fleming defends his T20 approach as CSK seek rhythm
Fleming also pushed back against suggestions that his T20 coaching approach has become outdated. While acknowledging that recent outcomes have not gone CSK’s way, he highlighted that his preparation is not limited to the IPL window. With CSK-linked roles across multiple tournaments, Fleming said his coaching and analysis work continues year-round, helping him stay close to how the shortest format evolves. “Criticism is fair when you don’t perform—it’s part of the role, part of the position. Look, I’m coaching throughout the year and involved in two other competitions, and I’m doing auctions across a lot of players. So it’s not that I switch off and then arrive in the IPL without understanding where the game is heading. If anything, it’s the other way around,” he admitted.
He pointed to CSK’s current transition as another reason the side has needed time to find consistent rhythm. With several new names in the squad, Fleming suggested that settling into roles and building combinations can take longer for teams than it does for others. “We just need a bit of confidence and evidence, and that comes from winning. We haven’t been too far off,” he said.
Fleming then assessed CSK’s most recent outing, noting that even after posting a strong total of 210, the team fell short due to execution in the closing stages. “We weren’t as accurate with the ball towards the end, but we still managed 210. So it’s a really good sign that we’re putting in the effort, that we’re fully aware of what needs to change, and that the criticism is appropriate. We just have to work harder and find a way forward. But I do feel in touch with the game,” Fleming said.
Coach lauds Dewald Brevis ahead of Delhi Capitals
In his remarks leading into the next challenge, Fleming also spoke positively about Dewald Brevis, a promising young South African who has attracted attention for his development. While remaining cautious about whether Brevis will be available for the upcoming match against Delhi Capitals, Fleming explained how the batter’s early chances helped shape his understanding of his own game. “To have worked out his game at such a young age, he obviously got opportunities early and then he dropped off while figuring out how he wanted to play. I’m sure there was plenty of advice during that time, but he’s now moved through that phase and has real clarity on the way he wants to play. It’s aggressive, it’s very skillful, and it’s becoming consistent. We value his input highly,” Fleming said.
Fleming added that Brevis has been a significant absence since the start of the season and suggested that, if he is fit and right for the match, it would be a boost to CSK’s plans. “He’s been a big miss since the start of the season. So, if he is right for this game, he’ll be a nice addition,” he concluded.
