Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) are getting ready for a brand new period after ending their lengthy and profitable affiliation with Stephen Fleming, who served because the franchise’s head coach from 2009 to 2026. With one of the influential teaching positions within the Indian Premier League (IPL) now vacant, discussions have already begun over who may take cost of the five-time champions.
Former India captain Kris Srikkanth has now shared his views on the matter, naming a number of candidates whereas explaining why he feels Chennai Tremendous Kings ought to look in the direction of an Indian coach to steer the franchise into its subsequent chapter.
Kris Srikkanth backs Rahul Dravid as frontrunner for CSK head coach function
Talking on his YouTube channel Cheeky Cheeka, Srikkanth stated Rahul Dravid could be an impressive selection to switch Fleming, highlighting the previous India head coach’s expertise and long-standing affiliation with the CSK ecosystem.
“CSK must observe an unorthodox strategy additionally at occasions and needn’t all the time be orthodox. Rahul Dravid could possibly be a superb candidate as he’s effectively related with the CSK group and India Cements. He has additionally coached Rajasthan. However no matter occurs, they need to go for an Indian coach,” Srikkanth stated.
Dravid arrives with a formidable teaching resume, having guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title earlier than taking cost of Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. Based on Srikkanth, his expertise throughout each worldwide and franchise cricket makes him one of many strongest contenders for the function.
Additionally READ: Chennai Super Kings announce the end of Stephen Fleming’s 17-year stint as head coach ahead of IPL 2027
Extra names emerge in CSK’s head coach dialog
Srikkanth additionally recommended that present CSK batting coach Michael Hussey could possibly be promoted as Fleming’s successor. He believes Hussey instructions immense respect inside the dressing room and even proposed former CSK star Suresh Raina as a attainable batting coach if the Australian is handed the highest job.
“Michael Hussey is likely to be an choice although. The selection will in all probability slender all the way down to considered one of Rahul Dravid or Michael Hussey. These two are effectively revered by everybody. Suresh Raina is extra of an IPL legend. However his worldwide observe report is common. So him turning into the pinnacle coach might be not on. However he can change into the batting coach and be a part of the help employees with Hussey as the pinnacle coach,” he added.
The previous India opener additionally talked about Anil Kumble as one other attainable candidate, whereas admitting he was uncertain whether or not Ravi Shastri or Ravichandran Ashwin could be appropriate decisions for the function. Srikkanth additionally dismissed hypothesis surrounding MS Dhoni turning into the subsequent head coach, though he believes the legendary captain may nonetheless proceed serving the franchise in a senior off-field capability.
“MS Dhoni gained’t change into the pinnacle coach. He will probably be extra of a mentor and be within the backend. He may additionally be in command of CSK total, like a director,” Srikkanth remarked.
Dhoni missed your entire IPL 2026 season attributable to damage, leaving his enjoying future with Chennai Tremendous Kings unsure. Nevertheless, Srikkanth believes the five-time IPL-winning captain may proceed to play a big function behind the scenes even when he’s not concerned because the franchise’s subsequent head coach.
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