Five candidates who can replace Stephen Fleming as Chennai Super Kings’ head coach

Samira Vishwas

Tezzbuzz|13-07-2026

Five-time Indian Premier League champions Chennai Super Kings have announced that Stephen Fleming is set to leave the franchise. Announcement came after Texas Super Kings finished the Major League 2026 season at the bottom of the points table. CSK also had a dismal IPL 2026 season finishing eighth in the points table.

Franchise sent out a statement which read “The Super Kings and Head Coach Stephen Fleming have mutually decided to part ways. Together, we shared one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in IPL history. The legacy you’ve built will continue to inspire us. With immense respect and gratitude, Thank you, Stephen.”

Fleming himself said “18 years is a lifetime in sport and I leave with nothing but gratitude. My time with Chennai Super Kings has been the privilege in my coaching career.” Team owner Rupa Gurunath also paid rich tributes to the Kiwi legend and said that he will remain an integral part of the team’s legacy.

Here are the five names who could become Chennai Super Kings’ new coach

5- Anil Kumble

India’s highest wicket taker Anil Kumble can be an ideal choice to replace the outgoing coach. 55-year-old has enjoyed stints with Royal challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians in the past. He also coached the Indian side for an year and enjoyed a fairly successful stint. Indian legend is known for his straight forwardness and key cricketing acumen which could come in handy.

4- Ravi Shastri

Yet another former India coach who could shake things up at the Chepauk stadium. Ravi Shastri is a no-nonsense character and tends to lift the spirit of the dressing room. His experience with the national side can also be a massive factor. Chennai will stand a lot to gain if they choose the 62-year-old as their next coach.

3- Dwayne Bravo

Considered one of the legends of the league, Dwayne Bravo has been with Kolkata Knight Riders as a mentor. Bravo, is a Bonafide legend in the T20 format and played a key role in the Super Kings’ title wins in the past. The West Indian knows the setup well and what the demands are. 43-year-old has also played with some of the members and more importantly he could potentially have MS Dhoni by his side to guide him when required.

2- Rahul Dravid

The legendary batter may have enjoyed success as a coach with the Under-19 and senior sides, his IPL CV is unsatisfactory. Rahul Dravid, didn’t enjoy a great time with Rajasthan Royals in 2025 which eventually saw him quit the team. 53-year-old could potentially look at the CSK challenge and fancy the job. Dravid just like Fleming is a calm character and believes in letting the captain make the calls. Staying closer to home could also entice the former India batter to the job that could see him tick off the one title he has missed so far.

1- Heman Badani

According to reports carried by Times of India, one of the names being considered as the next coach is Hemang Badani. The former India player was with Delhi Capitals for the past few seasons and could be released as a part of the overhaul that is taking place. Badani, didn’t have a great time last season with the Capitals and will be angling for a return to his home franchise. The 49-yer-old is a local lad and will know the environment much better than anyone else.