Former New Zealand skipper Stephen Fleming is leaving his IPL team Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after 18 years as coach, the franchise said on Monday.
Fleming, 53, joined Chennai as a player in the inaugural edition of the T20 tournament in 2008 and took charge as coach the following year.
He forged a formidable partnership with long-time skipper M.S. Dhoni, with Chennai becoming one of the most successful IPL franchises with five titles.
"The Super Kings and Head Coach Stephen Fleming have mutually decided to part ways," the franchise said in a statement.
"Together, we shared one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in IPL history. The legacy you've built will continue to inspire us. With immense respect and gratitude, Thank you, Stephen."
Under Fleming's leadership, Chennai entered the Indian Premier League play-offs a record 12 times, while also being part of 10 IPL finals.
Fleming also guided the team to two Champions League T20 trophies.
Fleming had been under fire in the last few years after CSK failed to qualify for the Playoffs in the last three seasons since it’s title-winning campaign in 2023.
"Eighteen years is a lifetime in sport, and I leave with nothing but gratitude," Fleming was quoted as saying in the statement.
"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," he said.
Fleming, a left-handed batter, scored 7,172 runs at an average of 40.06, including nine centuries, in 111 Tests for New Zealand between 1994 and 2008.
He also played 280 one-day international and five T20 matches for the national team.