Chennai, July 13 (IANS) Stephen Fleming’s long association with the Super Kings family came to an end on Monday after Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Texas Super Kings (TSK) and Joburg Super Kings (JSK) announced that they had mutually agreed to part ways with the former New Zealand captain across all three franchises.

The announcements bring the curtain down on one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in franchise cricket. Fleming joined CSK as a player in the inaugural Indian Premier League season in 2008 before taking over as head coach in 2009, guiding the franchise to five IPL titles, two Champions League Twenty20 trophies, 10 IPL final appearances and a record 12 playoff qualifications. In SA20, Joburg Super Kings reached the playoffs in all four editions so far, without making the final. They also reached the playoffs in the first three editions of the MLC but never played in the final.

CSK announced that the decision was reached following a series of discussions between Fleming and the franchise management. The two overseas Super Kings franchises, JSK at SA20 and TSK at Major League Cricket, also confirmed the development through separate statements on social media.

“The Texas Super Kings and Stephen Fleming have mutually agreed to part ways. We extend our sincere gratitude for his contributions to the franchise. We wish Fleming the best for his future,” TSK wrote on X.

“Joburg Super Kings and Stephen Fleming have mutually agreed to part ways. We sincerely thank Fleming for his leadership, dedication, and contribution. We wish him the best for his future,” JSK wrote.

Reflecting on his departure, Fleming described his time with the Super Kings as the defining chapter of his coaching career.

“Eighteen years is a lifetime in sport, and I leave with nothing but gratitude. My time with Chennai Super Kings has been the privilege of my coaching career. I am proud of everything we have achieved. Together, we celebrated unforgettable victories, overcame difficult moments, and built memories that will stay with me forever. CSK will always be close to my heart, and I will be cheering the team on for years to come,” the Kiwi veteran stated.

Paying tribute to Fleming’s contribution to Chennai Super Kings over nearly two decades, franchise owner Rupa Gurunath said, “Stephen Fleming has been the heartbeat of our coaching unit for almost the entire journey of this franchise. For nearly two decades, he has helped shape our identity, vision, and pursuit of excellence.”

“On behalf of everyone at the Super Kings franchise, we extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering commitment, passion, and leadership. While our journey together on the field comes to a close, he will always remain an integral part of the team’s legacy,” she added.

CSK Managing Director KS Viswanathan credited Fleming with building the culture that became synonymous with the franchise.

“From the earliest days of this journey, Fleming helped define not just how we played, but what we wanted to be as a franchise. He built a culture rooted in consistency, humility, and putting the team first. His ability to understand people and bring out the best from individuals across the team has been one of his greatest strengths. His influence extends far beyond the boundary, and we are proud to have shared this remarkable journey together,” Kasi said.

Fleming’s exit marks the end of an era across the Super Kings ecosystem, with the former New Zealand captain having played a central role in shaping the identity and success of the Chennai, Texas and Joburg franchises over the years.

–IANS

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