Chennai Super Kings‘ planning for the post-Stephen Fleming era is gathering momentum, with discussions around the franchise’s next Head Coach, a broader overhaul of its cricket operations and a potentially expanded role for MS Dhoni all emerging following the end of Fleming’s long association with the five-time IPL champions.
As previously reported by cricexec, Fleming has parted ways with Chennai Super Kings after 18 years, bringing one of the most successful coach-franchise partnerships in IPL history to a close. The leadership transition has since fuelled speculation over who could guide the franchise into its next chapter.
VVS Laxman backed as coaching candidate
Among the names linked with the vacancy, former India Captain VVS Laxman has received public backing from former India opener Sadagoppan Ramesh, who believes the former batter would be an ideal fit for Chennai Super Kings’ culture.
Sadagoppan Ramesh, former India opener, said in an Instagram video, “Many names are being mentioned as Fleming’s replacement. While options are aplenty, VVS Laxman is the best candidate to take over as CSK’s Head Coach. Among the three main reasons why he will work as CSK coach, the first is that he is a fantastic person.”
He added, “He will be like a big brother to everyone in the team and take them to the next level. The CSK management has always looked at the team like a family. Such a wonderful culture will only get enhanced if Laxman becomes the head coach.”
Ramesh also pointed to Laxman’s coaching background, saying, “He also has coaching experience at the highest level, having worked as India’s interim Head Coach several times when Rahul Dravid and Gautam Gambhir were unavailable.”
Ashwin keeps speculation alive
Ravichandran Ashwin has also been linked with a possible coaching role at Chennai Super Kings following Fleming’s departure, although the former India all-rounder declined to offer any clarity when questioned about the reports.
Asked on his official YouTube channel about reports linking him with England’s Test coaching role, Ashwin replied, “Give me some time. I’ll tell you.”
When the discussion shifted to speculation surrounding Chennai Super Kings, Ashwin simply responded, “Thank you.”
While Ashwin did not address the rumours directly, his measured response has done little to quieten speculation over whether he could eventually return to the franchise in a coaching capacity.
Dhoni tipped for greater influence
Alongside the search for a new Head Coach, attention has also turned to MS Dhoni’s future involvement with the franchise.
According to a report by RevSportz, Dhoni could take on a larger management role, with the former Captain reportedly in line to become team mentor and play an influential role in selecting Fleming’s successor. The report also states that he could be given greater responsibility over the cricketing side of the organisation as Chennai Super Kings reshape their leadership structure.
Wider changes could follow
Fleming’s departure may prove to be only the first step in a wider overhaul of Chennai Super Kings’ cricket operations.
According to Cricbuzz journalist, Vijay Tagore, Bowling Coach Eric Simons could also be among those to leave the franchise, while no decision has yet emerged regarding Batting Coach Mike Hussey as CSK considers further changes to its coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027.
The report also said the search for Fleming’s successor remains ongoing, with the franchise yet to decide whether its next Head Coach will come from India or overseas. CSK Chief Executive Officer Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz, “We have not decided whether we will go with an Indian or an overseas coach.”
With discussions continuing around the Head Coach position, the coaching staff and the franchise’s wider cricket operations, Chennai Super Kings appear to be entering one of the most significant rebuilding phases in their history as preparations for IPL 2027 gather pace.
