Chennai Super Kings have just completed yet another lackluster season in IPL 2026, as they failed to qualify for the playoffs.
After becoming champions in 2023, CSK have now exited from group stages thrice in a row, their longest barren run since their existence.
There have been questions about Stephen Fleming's future at the franchise, as the New Zealander may move on ahead of the new season. Amid this, Chennai Super Kings have not approached Rahul Dravid for the head coach position ahead of the next IPL season, the franchise confirmed as per a report of Cricbuzz.
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan dismissed the swirling rumours, stating clearly, "We have not taken a call on any cricketing matters. We will review at some stage.
The statement indicates that
the five-time champions are in no rush to finalise their coaching staff and will take a measured approach before making any decisions.
The clarification comes after intense speculation linking Dravid with CSK following the team's underwhelming recent performances. Dravid, who stepped down as India's head coach after T20 World Cup in 2024, earned widespread praise for his calm leadership and player-centric style. He guided the national team to the 2023 ODI World Cup final and the 2024 T20 World Cup win.
Dravid's link also gained pace as the India legend was earlier seen at a CSK academy facility inauguration, where he spent time with the youngsters amid presence of Kasi Vishwanathan.
CSK is currently undergoing a transitional phase. Questions remain about the future role of MS Dhoni, both as a player and mentor, while the franchise seeks to rebuild its competitive edge after missing the playoffs in recent seasons. The coaching setup, long anchored by Stephen Fleming, is also under review as the management looks to inject fresh ideas.
Industry insiders suggest the franchise may consider internal options or explore other experienced candidates before committing to a long-term appointment. Dravid, meanwhile, is expected to evaluate multiple opportunities, including potential roles with other IPL teams or international assignments that suit his coaching philosophy.
The former India player coached the Rajasthan Royals last season but left the franchise ahead of IPL 2026 season.
