Eoin Morgan’s CSK Entry Blocked By Chennai Legend

Eoin Morgan's name rejected by Chennai legend [Source: AFP] 

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are currently going through a major transition after parting ways with Stephen Fleming. The former New Zealand captain had been associated with the franchise for 18 years and helped them win five IPL titles. 

However, after a couple of underwhelming seasons, CSK decided to move in a different direction. As a result, the five-time IPL champions are now looking for a new head coach ahead of the IPL 2027 season. 

Several big names have already been linked with the role, and former England captain Eoin Morgan recently emerged as one of the possible candidates. 

Morgan's name came into the picture after former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin claimed that CSK could consider him as Fleming's replacement. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said Morgan had a strong chance of taking charge of the franchise.

Eoin Morgan’s CSK Entry Blocked By Kris Srikkanth

However, Chennai legend Kris Srikkanth has completely ruled out Eoin Morgan as an option. Srikkanth made his views clear on his YouTube channel. 

He said, “I won't go for Eoin Morgan for sure.” While he praised Morgan as a player and captain, he questioned his coaching credentials.

Srikkanth also pointed out that Morgan does not have enough coaching experience at the highest level. Moreover, he felt that Morgan's stint as KKR captain did not produce enough success to make him an ideal candidate for the CSK job.

"He was a good player and a good captain for England. But as a coach, I won’t accept him as an option. Even for KKR as their captain, he didn’t do anything great. It’ll be best if he just sticks to commentary. Likewise, it’ll be good for CSK if they don’t appoint Brendon McCullum as the head coach. They should say no to both Morgan and McCullum," the former Indian captain said.

Kris Srikkanth Suggests Michael Hussey For CSK Head Coach Role

Meanwhile, Srikkanth has also suggested a name that he believes could be the perfect choice for CSK.

The former India captain wants CSK to promote Michael Hussey as their next head coach. According to Srikkanth, the franchise does not need to look outside when they already have someone like Hussey within their setup.

“CSK don't need anyone from outside when they have Mr. Cricket with him. Michael Hussey should be the automatic head coach. He will be the best choice,” Srikkanth said.

Notably, Hussey has been part of the CSK setup since 2018 as their batting coach. Before that, he enjoyed a successful playing career with the franchise from 2008 to 2015.

Can Eoin Morgan Be The Ideal Choice?

There is no doubt that Eoin Morgan has an impressive leadership record. Notably, he guided England to their maiden ODI World Cup title in 2019. Moreover, he led KKR to IPL final in 2021, where they eventually lost to CSK.

However, Morgan has never worked as a head coach at either the international or franchise level. Since retiring from professional cricket in 2023, he has mainly worked as a commentator.

At the same time, Morgan remains one of the smartest white-ball thinkers in cricket. Therefore, while his lack of coaching experience could work against him, his leadership and tactical knowledge could still make him an interesting option.

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