02 September,2026 07:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Stephen Fleming (Pic: File Pic)
Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad said that the franchise will appoint a new head coach after Stephen Fleming's departure. He also said that the management is in no rush to make the decision, considering that there is ample time before the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
"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," he told the reporters.In July, CSK and Fleming decided to mutually part ways, bringing to a close one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in the history of the IPL.
Fleming was with CSK since the inception of the cash-rich league in 2008. He began his tenure as head coach of the Chennai-based franchise in 2009, building it into one of the most respected brands in franchise cricket before they eventually parted ways.
Further, Gaikwad said that taking over the Super Kings' captaincy from legendary cricketer MS Dhoni has come with a lot of responsibility.
"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," he said.
The skipper also urged the franchise's fans to keep supporting the team through its 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. Our fans have stood by us through some incredible moments, and now we need them to stay with us through the difficult times as well," Gaikwad signed off.
(With ANI Inputs)
