'Greatest captain..': CSK head coach Stephen Fleming credits Ms Dhoni for CSK's success | Cricket News - The Times of India
'Greatest captain..': CSK head coach Stephen Fleming credits Ms Dhoni for CSK's success
'Greatest captain..': CSK head coach Stephen Fleming credits Ms Dhoni for CSK's success
has brushed aside suggestions that he hasn’t received enough credit for the franchise’s success, instead choosing to spotlight the contributions of players and long-time captain
Fleming, who has been at the helm since 2009 after featuring as a player in the inaugural
season, has overseen one of the most successful eras in franchise cricket. Under his guidance, CSK have lifted five IPL titles and two Champions League trophies. However, following a string of underwhelming performances in IPL 2026, his role has come under scrutiny. Addressing the criticism ahead of CSK’s fourth match of the season, still searching for their first win, Fleming remained grounded.
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“It’s actually purely the players,” Fleming said ahead of CSK's fourth clash of the IPL 2026 season in the quest for their maiden success.
He further acknowledged the influence of Dhoni, calling himself fortunate to have worked alongside one of the game’s greatest leaders.
"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, the mental state of players, but ultimately the coaches are judged on the players. 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." he added.
“Criticism Is Fair”: Fleming responds to questions over T20 Approach
Fleming also rejected claims that his coaching methods in T20 cricket have become outdated.
While accepting that results haven’t gone CSK’s way recently, he emphasized his continuous involvement across global leagues. Currently associated with Super Kings franchises in multiple tournaments, Fleming said his year-round coaching and player analysis keep him deeply connected to the evolving nature of T20 cricket.
“Criticism is fair when you don’t do well - that’s part of the job, that's part of the position.
Look, I'm coaching throughout the year and two other competitions, and I'm doing auctions across 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. In fact, it's the other way.” he admitted.
He pointed out that CSK’s ongoing transition phase, with several upcoming players in the squad, has required time to settle, something other teams may not be dealing with to the same extent.
“We just need a bit of confidence and evidence, which comes from winning. We haven’t been too far off.”
Referencing their previous outing, Fleming noted that despite posting a strong total of 210, execution with the ball at the death cost them the game.
''We weren't as accurate with the ball towards the end, but we still managed 210. So, look, it's a really good sign that we're working very hard and we're well aware, 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,'' Fleming said
Fleming praises Dewald Brevis, keeps selection call open
Fleming also spoke highly of young South African talent Dewald Brevis, though he remained non-committal about his availability for the upcoming clash against Delhi Capitals.
"I think to have worked out his game at such a young age, he obviously got opportunities early and then he dropped off as he was working out how he wanted to play. I'm sure there was a lot of advice during that time, but he's now come out of that cycle with a real clarity as to the way he wants to play. It's aggressive, it's very skillful and it's becoming consistent. So, we value his inputs really highly. He's been a massive miss since the start of the season.
So, if he is right for this game, he'll be a nice addition." he concluded.
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