Chennai Super Kings and head coach Stephen Fleming The two have decided to part ways by mutual consent, bringing an end to a partnership that had shaped the identity of the franchise for over a decade and a half. Following Fleming's departure, CSK finished eighth in the Indian Premier League 2026, their third consecutive season outside the playoffs after finishing the previous campaign at the bottom. With the coaching position now vacant ahead of IPL 2027, CSK is considering several high-profile candidates to lead the franchise in its next chapter.
The search for a new head coach comes at a crucial juncture for CSK, who won their last title in the 2023 season by defeating Gujarat Titans in the final and equaled Mumbai Indians' record of five IPL trophies. Fleming's departure is the first major change after CSK's decline in the last three seasons. The franchise has identified several serious contenders for the role, each of whom possess distinct qualities that could shape the direction of the team for years to come.
Here are three possible replacements for Stephen Fleming as CSK head coach
3. Hemang Badani
Hemang Badani According to reports, he is one of the top contenders to become the next head coach of CSK. Badani was the head coach of Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026 and his two-year contract ended this year. The former India cricketer brings a mix of domestic and international franchise experience. Badani, the head coach of Delhi Capitals for the last two seasons, is in the race to join the CSK setup, with DC under him finishing fifth and sixth in the 2025 and 2026 seasons respectively.
Badani's coaching record with emerging talent matches well with CSK's rebuilding strategy. He has worked extensively with youth players in multiple leagues and has demonstrated the ability to develop systems and create continuity. CSK has a lot of emerging talent in its line-up, as the franchise has long invested in batsmen like Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brewis, Sarfaraz Khan and Karthik Sharma, who could benefit from Badani joining CSK ahead of the IPL 2027 season.
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