Hemang Badani has been in contention to become CSK coach [Source: AFP, @CricCrazyJohns/X.COM]It is official: after 18 years, Stephen Fleming and the Chennai Super Kings have parted ways. The decision comes after a disappointing run in 2026, where the Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs, and their MLC side, the Texas Super Kings, also failed to deliver the goods in the marquee tournament.Reportedly, Hemang Badani, the Delhi Capitals head coach for the last two years, is the front-runner to replace Fleming as the new CSK head coach.However, with the next season still far away, CSK shouldn’t rush to appoint a new head coach. The franchise should also consider other options, and here are 3 prominent candidates who could be equally good as Badani for the head coach role ahead of IPL 2027.1) Brendon McCullumYes, McCullum currently coaches the England white-ball team, having recently been sacked as the Test coach, but the ECB has no problem if he dedicates his time to franchise leagues during off-seasons.IPL generally takes place during the mid-March to May end window, and England generally doesn’t play a white-ball game during the timeframe as all their main players participate in the IPL. Hence, coaching in the IPL shouldn’t be an issue for the Kiwi legend.While Fleming attained success as the CSK coach, his ideas in recent years were stagnant, and it affected the team. McCullum’s arrival could change things for the IPL side as he would bring in an aggressive approach, and the batters would relish playing under him, and the franchise will also get a new identity.His Bazball approach changed English cricket, and he could do the same with the CSK squad.2) Ravichandran AshwinA tactical genius and a street-smart cricketer, the former India and CSK player could be a smart option to replace the outgoing Fleming as CSK head coach. In previous interviews, R Ashwin has desired to be associated with the franchise in one way or the other, and he could be a logical choice as the next head coach.Also Read: Stephen Fleming’s Replacement At CSK Picked, Another IPL Head Coach SightedMoreover, the advantage with Ashwin is that he is a local boy and has been associated with the franchise for a long period of time. He knows the CSK setup inside-out, and it won’t take long for him to settle into his new role.His appointment would also be a boost for the CSK spinners, who could learn the art of T20 bowling from the maestro himself.3) Adam VogesNot the most popular name on the list, and certainly someone you don’t associate with the IPL, but the former Australian cricketer, Adam Voges has quietly built a winning reputation in T20 competitions.Perth Scorchers have been the most dominant team in the Big Bash League, and one main reason for this is Voges. Under his astute guidance, the team has won back-to-back BBL titles (BBL 11, 12), and he currently leads the state's all-conquering Men's program, with WA securing eight domestic titles (5 ODC, 3 Sheffield Shield) during his time in charge.Just like Ashwin, Voges is tactically sound, and his winning record in BBL could be a tempting offer for CSK as they look to find Stephen Fleming’s IPL replacement.Also Read: Stephen Fleming Sacked By CSK, Breaks Silence After 18 Years
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