Overview
- Stephen Fleming ended an 18-year association with Chennai Super Kings when he left the club on July 13, 2026 to take the England Test coach role.
- CSK management says finding a new head coach is the immediate priority and that the appointment will come before major roster decisions.
- The franchise has signalled a clear preference for an overseas coach, a direction voiced by CEO Kasi Viswanathan and referenced in recent reports.
- Early reporting names Albie Morkel, Mike Hussey and Mike Hesson as leading contenders while Hemang Badani's prospects have diminished and the process remains in its early stages with many inquiries.
- CSK executives Rupa Gurunath and Kasi Viswanathan plan to consult MS Dhoni and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad before finalising the hire, which will shape tactics, staff roles and any pursuit of players such as Hardik Pandya.