MS Dhoni set to become CSK new head coach? Check details

Chennai Super Kings CEO Kashi Vishwanathan, describing former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as a "permanent fixture" of the franchise, has hinted that the five-time IPL-winning captain could be seen in the role of the team's head coach in the future. He stated that the team management is in complete agreement regarding the speculation that Dhoni might become the Head Coach. For the first time in IPL history, MS Dhoni did not play a single match in the tournament due to his calf injury; consequently, speculations are rife that he has now retired from the IPL, with only an official announcement remaining.

When asked about Dhoni's future, the CSK CEO outlined the franchise's expectations regarding him moving forward. During an interview, the CSK CEO clarified that the team management has not yet held any discussions with MS Dhoni regarding his plans. However, he explicitly stated that the CSK management desires for Dhoni to remain a permanent part of the franchise—whether as a player, a coach, or a mentor.

These remarks by the CSK CEO come at a time when Stephen Fleming's role as head coach is facing intense scrutiny, following the team's failure to qualify for the IPL playoffs for the third consecutive time. Fleming was appointed as CSK's coach back in 2009 and has held the position ever since. Both MS Dhoni and Fleming are known to be individuals of a calm demeanour off the field; however, their strategic acumen on the field is unparalleled. Nevertheless, the team's failure to secure a playoff spot over the last three seasons has now begun to raise questions regarding Fleming's position. Last week, former CSK star Ravichandran Ashwin also endorsed the idea of ​​MS Dhoni replacing Fleming as the new head coach. He stated that when MSD himself is available, the team need not look anywhere else.

Dhoni knows CSK better than anyone else, and despite not being part of the 2026 IPL season, he has remained actively involved in grooming the team's young players. Furthermore, by the time the 2027 IPL arrives, MS Dhoni will be 45 years old. Given that he has been battling multiple injuries—one of which forced him to sit out an entire season for the very first time—it would be a prudent move for CSK to integrate this veteran player into the team as head coach, thereby ensuring a timely transition of leadership from Fleming to Dhoni. 

Alternatively, it is also possible that Dhoni assumes the role of team mentor while Fleming continues as the head coach. Additionally, Suresh Raina could be brought in as the team's batting coach—a possibility that was first discussed following the 2025 IPL season, though nothing materialised during the 2026 campaign. However, following the disappointing performance of CSK's batsmen this season, Raina could well be inducted into the coaching panel. If both Dhoni and Raina join the coaching staff together, it would undoubtedly be a moment of great joy for CSK fans.