Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has revealed that the franchise is taking a measured approach to finding a successor to former head coach Stephen Fleming, insisting there is no need to rush the decision.
Fleming and CSK mutually parted ways in July, ending a hugely successful association that began when the New Zealand great took charge of the franchise in 2009.
With the next IPL season still some time away, Gaikwad said the CSK management has enough time to identify the right candidate.
“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,” Gaikwad told reporters.
Stephen Fleming’s long CSK association comes to an end
Fleming was associated with CSK from the inaugural IPL season in 2008, initially as a player, before becoming head coach in 2009.
Over the years, he became one of the central figures behind CSK’s consistency and success in the IPL.
His departure marks the end of a 17-year association with the franchise and leaves CSK with the task of finding a new head coach ahead of the next season.
Gaikwad’s comments suggest that CSK is prioritising the right fit over making a quick appointment.
CSK endured difficult IPL 2026 campaign
CSK’s decision to take its time comes after a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign.
The franchise finished eighth in the points table, winning just six of its 14 matches.
The result brought an end to another difficult phase for the five-time champions, who have traditionally been among the most consistent teams in the competition.
Gaikwad reflects on taking over from MS Dhoni
Gaikwad also opened up about the pressure of succeeding MS Dhoni as CSK captain.
The 29-year-old acknowledged that taking over from one of the most successful captains in IPL history has brought significant expectations.
“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,” he said.
However, Gaikwad added that he remains comfortable with the responsibility as long as he continues to enjoy the challenge.
Gaikwad asks CSK fans to remain patient
Reflecting on CSK’s journey since 2008, Gaikwad acknowledged that the franchise is currently going through a difficult period after years of sustained success.
He urged the team’s supporters to continue backing the players despite the recent struggles.
“As CSK fans and as a franchise, we’ve been on an incredible journey. Since 2008, almost every cycle has brought us an IPL trophy, and very few franchises have been able to achieve that level of consistency,” Gaikwad said.
He added that CSK’s fans have stood by the franchise during its biggest successes and should continue doing so during challenging times.
With the next IPL season still ahead, CSK now faces a crucial rebuilding phase — starting with the appointment of Fleming’s successor and decisions around the squad at the upcoming mini-auction.
