Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are preparing for a new era after ending their long and successful association with Stephen Fleming, who served as the franchise’s head coach from 2009 to 2026. With one of the most influential coaching positions in the Indian Premier League (IPL) now vacant, discussions have already begun over who could take charge of the five-time champions.
Former India captain Kris Srikkanth has now shared his views on the matter, naming several candidates while explaining why he feels Chennai Super Kings should look towards an Indian coach to lead the franchise into its next chapter.
Kris Srikkanth backs Rahul Dravid as frontrunner for CSK head coach role
Speaking on his YouTube channel Cheeky Cheeka, Srikkanth said Rahul Dravid would be an outstanding choice to replace Fleming, highlighting the former India head coach’s experience and long-standing association with the CSK ecosystem.
“CSK needs to follow an unorthodox approach also at times and needn’t always be orthodox. Rahul Dravid could be an excellent candidate as he’s well connected with the CSK group and India Cements. He has also coached Rajasthan. But whatever happens, they should go for an Indian coach,” Srikkanth said.
Dravid arrives with an impressive coaching resume, having guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title before taking charge of Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. According to Srikkanth, his experience across both international and franchise cricket makes him one of the strongest contenders for the role.
More names emerge in CSK’s head coach conversation
Srikkanth also suggested that current CSK batting coach Michael Hussey could be promoted as Fleming’s successor. He believes Hussey commands immense respect within the dressing room and even proposed former CSK star Suresh Raina as a possible batting coach if the Australian is handed the top job.
“Michael Hussey might be an option though. The choice will probably narrow down to one of Rahul Dravid or Michael Hussey. These two are well respected by everyone. Suresh Raina is more of an IPL legend. But his international track record is average. So him becoming the head coach is probably not on. But he can become the batting coach and be part of the support staff with Hussey as the head coach,” he added.
The former India opener also mentioned Anil Kumble as another possible candidate, while admitting he was unsure whether Ravi Shastri or Ravichandran Ashwin would be suitable choices for the role. Srikkanth also dismissed speculation surrounding MS Dhoni becoming the next head coach, although he believes the legendary captain could still continue serving the franchise in a senior off-field capacity.
“MS Dhoni won’t become the head coach. He will be more of a mentor and be in the backend. He may also be in charge of CSK overall, like a director,” Srikkanth remarked.
Dhoni missed the entire IPL 2026 season due to injury, leaving his playing future with Chennai Super Kings uncertain. However, Srikkanth believes the five-time IPL-winning captain could continue to play a significant role behind the scenes even if he is not involved as the franchise’s next head coach.
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