MS Dhoni Picks His Preferred CSK Coach? Hemang Badani Emerges as Leading Candidate- IPL

Former India batter Hemang Badani has emerged as the frontrunner to become the next head coach of Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The franchise is looking for a replacement for Stephen Fleming after missing the IPL playoffs for the third straight season in 2026.

MS Dhoni Wants Indian Coach

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has confirmed that the job of finding the next head coach has been given to MS Dhoni. The former captain is also expected to play a key role in rebuilding the squad. According to The Indian Express, Dhoni has told the CSK owners that he prefers an Indian coach. The franchise is still looking at overseas candidates, but Badani is currently seen as the leading option.

Badani has worked in several T20 leagues and has won titles in the SA20, ILT20 and Lanka Premier League. He also has experience with Tamil Nadu, which could help him understand the conditions at Chepauk. CSK have struggled to make the most of home conditions in recent seasons.

Eoin Morgan Not in Talks With CSK

There were reports that former England captain Eoin Morgan could take over from Fleming. But a recent PTI update said there have been no talks between Morgan and CSK, including any initial discussions. This makes Morgan’s chances of getting the job look unlikely at this stage. The final decision will be taken by the CSK ownership after considering both Indian and overseas candidates.

Badani Faces One Major Hurdle

Dhoni reportedly wants the new CSK head coach to work only with the IPL franchise. The coach would also be involved in player scouting and preparations for the next mega auction. This could be a problem for Badani. He currently coaches Southern Brave in The Hundred and Dubai Capitals in the ILT20. He also works as a consultant for Seattle Orcas.

Fleming had also worked with other teams during his time with CSK. He coached Johannesburg Super Kings in the SA20 and Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket. CSK have already appointed Albie Morkel as Johannesburg Super Kings’ head coach for the upcoming season. It is not clear if CSK would compensate Badani for leaving his other T20 roles. That could be an important factor before the franchise makes its final decision.

CSK Begin Major Rebuild After Poor IPL 2026

CSK’s search for a new coach comes after a disappointing IPL 2026 season. The five-time champions finished eighth in the points table. CSK won six and lost eight of their 14 league matches. They finished with 12 points and missed the playoffs for the third consecutive year.

Former captain MS Dhoni also missed the entire 2026 season because of a calf injury. The franchise had already changed its approach at the 2025 mega auction, with a big focus on uncapped players ahead of the 2026 season.

Sanju Samson Stood Out for CSK

Sanju Samson, who joined CSK in a trade from Rajasthan Royals, was their best batter during the season. He scored his first century for the franchise with an unbeaten 115 against Delhi Capitals. Shiv Dube and uncapped batter Kartik Sharma also made useful contributions during the campaign.

The bowling attack was less consistent and was hit by injuries. Khaleel Ahmed missed the season after being ruled out early, while death-overs bowler Jamie Overton suffered an injury during the later part of the tournament. CSK now have to make several important decisions before IPL 2027. The appointment of Fleming’s replacement will be one of the biggest with Badani currently leading the race for the job.

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