Hemang Badani rejected CSK offer [Source: AFP and X]The CSK franchise stunned one-and-all by naming Zaheer Khan as its new head coach for the IPL 2027 season next year. The former Indian fast bowler was appointed for the high-profile role as a replacement of Stephen Fleming, who stepped down just a few weeks ago.It is worth noting that before Khan’s sudden ascension, it was fellow former Indian player Hemang Badani who was highly considered to become CSK’s next coach. Several reports even linked the Delhi Capitals coach with the five-time IPL winning franchise.However, it appears that it was Badani himself who rejected the offer owing to a very specific reason.Why did Hemang Badani reject CSK offer?As reported by the Times of India, Hemang Badani “checked all the boxes” and was in the final stages of negotiations with the CSK management before the franchise decided to appoint Zaheer Khan as its next head coach instead. However, the report also states that it was Badani himself who refused the offer. It appears that Badani was under the impression that he would helm at least three teams of the Super Kings franchise.Also Read- "Typical MS Dhoni Move"- Fans React On New CSK Head Coach Zaheer KhanHowever, after Albie Morkel was named head coach of Joburg Super Kings before SA20 2027, the former Indian cricketer derailed his conversations with the franchise. Moreover, Hemang Badani also wanted a multi-year coaching contract, while CSK wanted short-term arrangement in a bid to analyze his performance season by season.A source close to the development said “Hemang Badani checked all the boxes, and negotiations were even in the final stages regarding money and contract duration. But he was initially given the impression that he would operate across at least three of the franchise's teams. Albie Morkel's appointment as the head coach of Joburg Super Kings in SA20 derailed the conversations with Badani; the contract duration was the real deal-breaker.”Why did CSK opt for Zaheer Khan instead?While it was Hemang Badani who himself moved away from the CSK franchise, the management has since explained the exact reason behind picking Zaheer Khan as its new head coach. CSK owner Rupa Gurunath praised Zaheer for his vast experience, saying “Zaheer's distinguished playing career and proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition to our setup. We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise.”Another report also claimed that it was former CSK captain and Zaheer’s ex-national teammate MS Dhoni himself who suggested the fast bowler to the franchise. Hemang Badani runs into trouble in Delhi Capitals, to be replaced by GangulyWhile Zaheer Khan was preferred over Hemang Badani as CSK head coach, several reports indicate that Sourav Ganguly might replace the former all-rounder as new coach of the Delhi Capitals franchise as well.Just a few weeks ago, a report indicated that Badani was involved in a verbal spat with senior opening batter KL Rahul in this year’s IPL 2026 season. As of now, it remains to be seen what the future holds for the coaching veteran.Also Read- India vs Japan Live Streaming, Live Telecast- Where To Watch Only T20I 2026 In India?
