Two difficult seasons have triggered questions about Chennai Super Kings‘ direction, but a change in the dugout does not appear to be part of the franchise’s immediate plans. According to a report by Cricbuzz journalist Vijay Tagore, Stephen Fleming is expected to continue as Head Coach heading into IPL 2027 despite growing criticism following successive underwhelming finishes.
Scrutiny increased after recent struggles
The five-time champions endured consecutive disappointing campaigns, ending the 2025 season at the bottom of the table before finishing eighth in IPL 2026. The decline led to calls for change from some supporters, with criticism of the coaching setup gaining momentum on social media.
Despite the pressure, the New Zealander’s position appears unchanged. Fleming has been part of the Chennai setup since the IPL began and has overseen each of the franchise’s five title triumphs, making him one of the defining figures in the team’s history.
Fleming accepted that the decision rested elsewhere
Speculation around his future gathered pace during the season, but Fleming made it clear that any decision regarding his role would be made by the franchise.
After Chennai’s defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad during IPL 2026, he told reporters: “Well, it’s always a choice for the management. There’s been a lot of talk about it. I know we are judged on results; that’s fair. So yeah, that’s the management’s call.”
His remarks came amid increasing debate over whether Chennai would respond to their recent results with changes behind the scenes.
Super Kings commitments continue in the United States
While attention has shifted towards preparations for the next IPL season, Fleming is currently in the United States, where he is guiding Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket. The American franchise is part of the wider Super Kings network, and his involvement there means key discussions regarding Chennai’s campaign are expected only after the tournament concludes.
The Chennai camp is expected to carry out a broader assessment of the season in the months ahead. However, the indications are that the process will be centred on restoring the team’s competitiveness rather than embarking on a change of leadership.
Focus turns to the next phase
Fleming’s agreement with the franchise is traditionally renewed every season and another extension is expected as Chennai begin planning for IPL 2027. After setting the benchmark for consistency for much of the previous decade and delivering five titles, the challenge now is to guide the franchise back into contention following two seasons that fell below its own standards.
With the rebuilding process likely to dominate discussions in the coming months, Chennai appear set to entrust that task to the coach who has been at the heart of the Super Kings journey since the league’s inaugural campaign.
