Stephen Fleming's departure as Chennai Super Kings head coach has sparked speculation over who could succeed the five-time IPL-winning coach, with former
India batter Hemang Badani emerging as the leading candidate.
CSK announced on Monday that Fleming and the franchise had mutually decided to end their 18-year association, closing one of the most successful coach-franchise partnerships in IPL history.
With IPL 2027 and the next player auction approaching, attention has quickly shifted to who will take over one of the biggest coaching jobs in franchise cricket.
Hemang Badani emerges as frontrunner
According to a report by The Times of India, former India batter Hemang Badani is the leading contender to replace Fleming.
Badani, who served as Delhi Capitals' head coach last season, has reportedly impressed CSK's management with his tactical approach and understanding of modern T20 cricket.
The report adds that CSK's senior management is currently in Dallas reviewing the franchise's recent performances and future plans, with Badani emerging as the preferred option as part of a wider review of the team's cricket operations.
No official decision has been announced.
Michael Clarke also linked
Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has also emerged as a candidate, according to multiple reports.
The 2015 World Cup-winning captain has long expressed interest in coaching in franchise cricket and is understood to be under consideration as CSK evaluates several experienced options following Fleming's exit.
Other names being discussed
Several other high-profile names have surfaced in speculation surrounding the vacancy, although none have been linked through official channels.
- Rahul Dravid brings proven international coaching credentials after guiding India to the 2024 T20 World Cup title and developing several generations of cricketers.
- Brendon McCullum, recently relieved of England's Test coaching duties, has extensive IPL experience and is known for his aggressive coaching philosophy.
- MS Dhoni has inevitably featured in fan discussions given his tactical brilliance and long association with CSK, though there is no indication the franchise is considering him for the role.
CSK begin life after Fleming
Whoever succeeds Fleming will inherit one of the IPL's most successful franchises but also one facing a significant rebuild.
After winning five IPL titles under Fleming, CSK have struggled over the past three seasons, missing the playoffs before enduring difficult 2025 and 2026 campaigns as the squad entered a transition phase.
The next appointment will therefore be tasked with balancing CSK's long-standing culture with the need to rejuvenate an ageing squad ahead of IPL 2027.
At present, Hemang Badani appears to be the strongest contender according to The Times of India, while Michael Clarke remains among the names linked to the role. However, CSK have not confirmed a shortlist or announced Fleming's successor.
