MS Dhoni Set To Handpick CSK's Next Head Coach

MS Dhoni [Source: AFP]

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise and team head coach Stephen Fleming “mutually” parted ways on Monday, July 13. The process of naming his successor has not been initiated yet, as confirmed by CSK MD Kasi Viswanathan.

It now appears that former captain and legendary wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni will have a huge role to play in identifying the next head coach of the franchise. 

MS Dhoni to play vital role in deciding CSK coach

As reported by Indian Express, former captain MS Dhoni will play a huge role in CSK’s road ahead as they aim to determine the next head coach of the franchise. The franchise is now open to considering candidates from both, home and overseas. 

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The report also stated that Dhoni will be expected to be involved in the process of identifying the next CSK head coach, and the legendary wicketkeeper-batter might meet up with a few individuals or candidates during the upcoming The Hundred 2026 season in England.

It is worth noting that MS Dhoni is already in England at the moment. With his vast experience and long-standing association with the franchise, Dhoni's opinion is expected to carry significant weight in the final decision-making process.

New coach to decide his own support staff, says CSK MD

CSK MD Kasi Viswanathan told the Indian Express that the franchise has not initiated the process in finding its next head coach yet. Rejecting reports that indicated Hemang Badani is being under consideration as Fleming’s replacement, Viswanathan said “We have just finished this process, and we will start exploring the next options. We have not decided on any particular name yet.”

The managing director also added that the new head coach of the franchise will get to decide his own support staff in the team.

He added “The new head coach will decide the support staff. It is only fair if he gets to bring his own support staff or if he wishes to carry on someone from within.”

Why was Stephen Fleming removed as coach?

Stephen Fleming has been associated with the CSK franchise since the inaugural IPL season, first as a player and then as a head coach. Under his coaching tenure and with the leadership of MS Dhoni, CSK won five IPL titles and bagged two additional CLT20 trophies. 

However, the franchise has not qualified for the playoffs since lifting the 2023 title. Interestingly, MS Dhoni also stepped down as CSK skipper the following year in favour of rising star Ruturaj Gaikwad. 

With three successive first-round exits from the IPL, managing director Kasi Viswanathan claimed that the management had an honest discussion with Fleming, and the two eventually parted ways from each other. 

Celebrating Fleming’s journey with CSK, even team owner Rupa Gurunath said “On behalf of everyone at the Super Kings franchise, we extend our deepest gratitude for his unwavering commitment, passion, and leadership. While our journey together on the field comes to a close, he will always remain an integral part of the team’s legacy.”

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