Chennai Super Kings may bring in a new coach after another tough season

The Chennai Super Kings have missed the IPL playoffs for the second year in a row. The team finished in seventh place in IPL 2026 with only 12 points from 13 matches. Heavy defeats against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans hurt their chances badly.

This comes after they ended at 10th spot in 2025. The two-time back-to-back playoff miss has put head coach Stephen Fleming under pressure.

Fleming has been with CSK since 2009 and has led the team to five IPL titles. He knows that results decide his future. In a recent talk, he said that the team’s performance will shape the decisions ahead. He also praised young players like Ayush Mhatre, who showed promise in a tough season.

The team has also seen a change in captaincy. Ruturaj Gaikwad took over from MS Dhoni, who has been out with injuries this year. Dhoni did not play much in the last two seasons due to fitness issues.

Now, reports say that Rahul Dravid could be the top choice to replace Fleming. Dravid has a good relationship with CSK owner N. Srinivasan. He is also known for building the Rajasthan Royals team that won the IPL title in 2024.

Fans are divided on this possible change. Some feel Dravid can bring fresh ideas. Others worry about how he will work with Gaikwad and other senior players.

As for Dhoni, he may take up a coaching role with the team in the future. CSK is already planning for the 2027 auctions and wants to build a strong setup

                                               

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