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Chennai Super Kings' long association with Stephen Fleming has come to an end, and speculation is already building around whether MS Dhoni will step in to guide the franchise's search for a new head coach ahead of IPL 2027.
The five-time champions confirmed on Monday that they were parting ways with the former New Zealand captain, bringing an end to an association that had lasted 18 years.
According to reports, the decision followed a broader review of the franchise's performances across various leagues it operates in. Fleming's position had already looked shaky after CSK failed to qualify for the IPL playoffs for a third consecutive season, prompting management to hold review discussions with the board.
Moreover, CSK's sister team, Texas Super Kings, also finished at the bottom of the Major League Cricket standings this year.
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According to a report in The Indian Express, Dhoni is expected to be closely involved in shaping the franchise's next move. He is in the UK, and the veteran is expected to return only later this month, after which he's likely to take an active role in identifying potential coaching candidates.
With the franchise reportedly leaning toward Indian coaches, there's also a possibility that Dhoni could begin informal conversations with candidates in the UK, particularly around The Hundred, even before his return.
Beyond Fleming's exit, further changes could follow, with bowling coach Eric Simons potentially also on his way out, while there's no clarity yet regarding batting coach Mike Hussey's future with the franchise.
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Hemang Badani is currently with the Delhi Capitals and has been reported as one of the frontrunners to replace Fleming at Chepauk.
However, under his tutelage, the Capitals have not managed to crack the playoff code as they finished fifth and sixth in the 2025 and 2026 editions, respectively.
However, he has shone with the Chepauk Super Gillies as he won four titles with them in the TNPL.
Rahul Dravid also stands out as a serious option. He's currently without a franchise to coach, having stepped away from Rajasthan Royals after a season that didn't go according to plan in 2025.
Dravid was at the helm when India lifted the T20 World Cup back in 2024. He is known to have a profound influence on young cricketers, and his work in India's Under-19 setup was well-praised. CSK reportedly looks to build its next core around a fresh group of Indian talent, and Dravid could be the right man to nurture them.
Shane Watson is a CSK veteran, as he wore the Yellow jersey for three seasons during his playing days. After his retirement, he has steadily built a coaching career having led the San Francisco Unicorns in MLC across three seasons between 2023 and 2025.
During that stint, he guided his team to two playoff appearances, including a runner-up finish. He also took charge of Pakistan Super League side Quetta Gladiators ahead of the 2024 season, helping the franchise reach the playoffs for the first time in five years.
Watson currently serves as an assistant coach with Kolkata Knight Riders and could be viewed as a genuine option if CSK opts for fresh leadership.
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The five-time champions confirmed on Monday that they were parting ways with the former New Zealand captain, bringing an end to an association that had lasted 18 years.
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According to reports, the decision followed a broader review of the franchise's performances across various leagues it operates in. Fleming's position had already looked shaky after CSK failed to qualify for the IPL playoffs for a third consecutive season, prompting management to hold review discussions with the board.
Moreover, CSK's sister team, Texas Super Kings, also finished at the bottom of the Major League Cricket standings this year.
Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source
Will MS Dhoni take over as CSK coach?
According to a report in The Indian Express, Dhoni is expected to be closely involved in shaping the franchise's next move. He is in the UK, and the veteran is expected to return only later this month, after which he's likely to take an active role in identifying potential coaching candidates.
With the franchise reportedly leaning toward Indian coaches, there's also a possibility that Dhoni could begin informal conversations with candidates in the UK, particularly around The Hundred, even before his return.
Beyond Fleming's exit, further changes could follow, with bowling coach Eric Simons potentially also on his way out, while there's no clarity yet regarding batting coach Mike Hussey's future with the franchise.
MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion
Potential replacements for Stephen Fleming
Hemang Badani
Hemang Badani is currently with the Delhi Capitals and has been reported as one of the frontrunners to replace Fleming at Chepauk.
However, under his tutelage, the Capitals have not managed to crack the playoff code as they finished fifth and sixth in the 2025 and 2026 editions, respectively.
However, he has shone with the Chepauk Super Gillies as he won four titles with them in the TNPL.
Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid also stands out as a serious option. He's currently without a franchise to coach, having stepped away from Rajasthan Royals after a season that didn't go according to plan in 2025.
Dravid was at the helm when India lifted the T20 World Cup back in 2024. He is known to have a profound influence on young cricketers, and his work in India's Under-19 setup was well-praised. CSK reportedly looks to build its next core around a fresh group of Indian talent, and Dravid could be the right man to nurture them.
Shane Watson
Shane Watson is a CSK veteran, as he wore the Yellow jersey for three seasons during his playing days. After his retirement, he has steadily built a coaching career having led the San Francisco Unicorns in MLC across three seasons between 2023 and 2025.
During that stint, he guided his team to two playoff appearances, including a runner-up finish. He also took charge of Pakistan Super League side Quetta Gladiators ahead of the 2024 season, helping the franchise reach the playoffs for the first time in five years.
Watson currently serves as an assistant coach with Kolkata Knight Riders and could be viewed as a genuine option if CSK opts for fresh leadership.
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