Stephen Fleming vs MS Dhoni? CSK coach clears air on ‘credit’ controversy
Published - 11 Apr 2026, 12:34 PM | Updated - 11 Apr 2026, 12:42 PM
Table of Contents
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are going through a tough phase in the ongoing IPL 2026, and pressure is immense on the players, captain, and coaches. Amidst the massive backlash and noise, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming has made a bold remark over the team’s struggles.
As the Chennai Super Kings continue their search for their first win in the ongoing IPL 2026 season, Stephen Fleming’s coaching has come under heavy scrutiny. However, the New Zealander has shifted the focus entirely to the players when it comes to success and failure.
Players win matches: Stephen Fleming breaks silence amid heavy backlash
Fleming has been part of the Chennai Super Kings since the early days of the IPL and has built one of the most successful teams in IPL history, along with the majestic MS Dhoni. Under their leadership, CSK have won five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies.
But for the past couple of seasons, CSK failed to make it to the IPL playoffs, and now they are yet to register a single win so far in this season. So, it's obvious the New Zealander is facing the heat, and even he was called out for being an old-school coach.
Actually, Fleming was questioned whether he felt he didn’t get that credit or praise for making CSK the joint-most successful franchise in the IPL, along with Mumbai Indians (MI), because he is now facing so much backlash when the team is going through a rough phase.
Coaches are judged on the players: Stephen Fleming
However, the CSK coach made it very clear that success in the game is always about players, not just coaches. Despite his success as a coach, the former New Zealand captain believes that the real credit goes to the players who perform on the field.
Stephen Fleming said at the pre-match press conference, as quoted by Cricbuzz: “It's actually purely the players. For me, it just gives us another year of coaching. And it's always been the case. The players do it. The coaching off the field is really important, but the performances on the field win titles. And, yes, we play a part in the fitness of players, the performance of players, and the mental state of players, but ultimately the coaches are judged on the players.”
CSK coach feels 'incredibly lucky' for being able to work with MS Dhoni
Fleming also credited legendary Dhoni for being a huge part of CSK’s success over the years. He continued, “I've worked with one of the greatest captains of all time, and I've been incredibly lucky to do that as a coach. So, look, it's not lost on me, and I'm proud of the results, but it's not something that I crave or desire to get accolades for.”
Despite recent poor results, Fleming refused to accept that his coaching methods are outdated. The coach has made it clear that he is deeply involved in modern T20 cricket, working with CSK’s franchises in MLC and SA20 and constantly studying players and strategies from around the world.
Read Also: No Kohli-Rohit! Aakash Chopra includes Abhishek Sharma in Top 5 batters vs spin amid IPL 2026
Transition phase is CS hard, but Stephen Fleming remains confident about a big comeback
Stephen Fleming also pointed out that the Chennai Super Kings are currently going through a transition phase, with several new players coming into the squad. Because of this, the team is still trying to settle and find the right combination, while other teams have already settled.
He admitted that criticism is fair because they are not winning the game, but at the same time, he believes CSK is not far from turning things around. He highlighted that the team has already shown signs of improvement, especially in the batting department, but feels their bowling remains a concern.
Stephen Fleming signed off by saying, “Criticism is fair when you don't do well. That's part of the position. Look, I'm coaching throughout the year and two other competitions, and I'm doing auctions for a lot of players. So, it's not that I just turn off and then come to the IPL without an idea of where the game is going. I'm well aware, and the criticism is appropriate. So, we just have to work harder and find a way forward. But I do feel in touch with the game.”
About the Author
Rashmi Wasnik is a passionate content writer with over a decade of experience. She started her journ...
