The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise has started its search for a new head coach. Reports suggest that the franchise is looking to appoint another overseas coach to replace Stephen Fleming, who was in charge until recently.
As part of the process, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan is reportedly set to hold discussions with CSK legend MS Dhoni and current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad before finalising the new head coach. This once again indicates that the Chennai franchise is keen on bringing in a foreign coach. As of now, three names are reportedly being considered.
3 Overseas Coaches
The first name on the list is former England Test coach Brendon McCullum. The New Zealander has already played for CSK in the IPL and also has coaching experience with Kolkata Knight Riders. Being a former player himself, McCullum could also find it easier to connect with the players and settle into the CSK setup. Hence, he is likely to be one of the top choices for the franchise.
The second name is Mike Hussey. The former Australian cricketer has been associated with CSK for several years and has been working with the franchise since being appointed as their batting coach in 2018. Given his long association with the team, CSK could consider promoting Hussey to the head coach role.
However, there is a roadblock to that possibility. With Stephen Fleming recently taking charge as England’s Test coach, he is reportedly keen on having Hussey assist him with the national team. It remains to be seen what decision Hussey makes. His decision could determine whether he remains in the race for the CSK head coach position.
The third name being considered is Albie Morkel. The Chennai Super Kings franchise recently appointed Morkel as the head coach of their sister franchise, Joburg Super Kings, for the SA20. With the franchise placing its trust in Morkel for the Joburg Super Kings role, there is speculation that he could also be handed the responsibility of coaching CSK.
With Morkel already part of the CSK franchise family, he appears to have a strong chance of landing the Chennai head coach position.
It will be interesting to see which of these three candidates CSK eventually chooses. MS Dhoni and CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad are also expected to play an important role in the process.
CSK’s performances have declined significantly over the last few seasons, and the franchise will be keen to prove its strength once again. With the IPL 2027 auction approaching, the need for a new head coach has become even more pressing for the five-time champions.
Also Read : Another IPL Coaching Era Ends as Stephen Fleming Steps Down from CSK
