Ruturaj Gaikwad, captain of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), stated that the team is not in a rush to locate Stephen Fleming’s replacement. After 17 years with the team, the former head coach has resigned. With no immediate intentions to announce a new appointment, Gaikwad’s remarks coincide with CSK’s preparations for the forthcoming season and mini-auction.
Following subpar performance in the previous two seasons, the five-time IPL champs made the decision to fire their long-time coach. In 2008, Fleming accepted a contract to play in the first IPL season. In 2009, he was appointed coach.
Over the course of 17 years, he oversaw two Champions League T20 championships and five IPL victories, helping to establish the Super Kings as one of the most renowned teams in the world. Gaikwad said there was no need to name a new coach because there was still plenty of time until the 2027 season began.
At a press conference in Coimbatore, Gaikwad told reporters that although CSK is thinking about replacing Fleming, there isn’t a rush to decide. He said, “We will have a head coach. The management is obviously thinking about it. There is still plenty of time before the IPL, so there is no rush to make a decision.“
After taking over as the team’s captain in 2024, Gaikwad managed three seasons of fifth, tenth, and eighth place finishes without qualifying for the postseason. After the team’s poor performance in 2026 and the recent high-profile acquisition of Sanju Samson, who also has IPL captaincy experience, concerns about his leadership emerged. Despite having to live up to the history of MS Dhoni, who guided the team to five IPL titles, Gaikwad reaffirmed his intention to remain captain of the squad.
He further added, “Yes, it has definitely changed a lot. I won’t deny that. Taking over from MS Dhoni comes with a lot of responsibility because of his immense success, and naturally, there are high expectations for more wins and titles. But that’s part of the role. As long as I continue to enjoy it, I’m happy to do it.”
