After 18 years, one of IPL’s most enduring partnerships has come to an end. Chennai Super Kings have officially parted ways with head coach Stephen Fleming, and while the split was described as mutual, the real story now is what comes next — and MS Dhoni is expected to be right at the heart of it.

Why Stephen Fleming Was Let Go

CSK managing director Kasi Viswanathan explained that the decision followed an honest, thorough review of the team’s recent seasons, with the franchise citing a mutual, considered call rather than an abrupt sacking. Fleming had been part of the CSK setup since the league’s very inception, guiding the franchise to five IPL titles, but mounting pressure built after CSK missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.

MS Dhoni’s Role in the Succession Plan

According to The Indian Express, Dhoni is likely to be closely involved in identifying Fleming’s replacement and may even meet prospective candidates in the UK during The Hundred. Reports suggest CSK could lean towards an Indian appointment, with DC coach Hemang Badani emerging as an early frontrunner.

Key Details

Detail	Information
Outgoing Coach	Stephen Fleming
Tenure at CSK	18 years
Titles Won	5
Reason	Performance review, mutual decision
Playoff Misses	3 consecutive seasons
Dhoni’s Role	Involved in selecting successor
Reported Frontrunner	Hemang Badani (DC coach)

What’s Next for Dhoni Himself

Dhoni’s own playing future remains uncertain after he sat out the entirety of IPL 2026 due to injury, though CSK’s management has maintained he remains welcome in any capacity going forward. For full IPL 2027 updates, fans can check the official IPL website.

For more CSK news and IPL coaching changes, check out our IPL 2027 section on TechnoSports.