CSK deny Rahul Dravid rumours, yet to take call on head coach Stephen Fleming for IPL 2027

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are yet to make a decision on the future of Stephen Fleming as their head coach in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Struggles in last 3 years

The former New Zealand captain, along with MS Dhoni, has been part of CSK’s five title runs in the league. However, in the last couple of seasons, CSK have lagged behind. The modern T20 approach has taken over, but Chennai was one step behind in the previous 2 years. Fleming admitted to the mistake, and CSK changed their outlook before the IPL 2026 season.

The current unit looked more equipped, but injuries derailed them. The Sanju Samson trade worked as well. However, CSK have finished 5th, 10th, and 8th in the last 3 seasons. Moreover, they’ve won just 17 matches and lost 25. After another disappointing season, fans started to call for Fleming to resign.

Rahul Dravid as CSK head coach?

In the past couple of days, rumours emerged that Rahul Dravid was in talks with CSK to take over from Fleming as the head coach. The former India captain and head coach had left the Rajasthan Royals before the 2026 season and isn’t involved with an IPL team at the moment.

However, no talks have been had between CSK and Dravid. Kasi Viswanathan, CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of the 5-time champions, had denied rumours. Usually, IPL franchises take time off before reviewing their performance in the last season and planning for the upcoming editions.

No call on Stephen Fleming yet

CSK are yet to have that conversation. “We have not taken a call on any cricketing matters. We will review at some stage,” Viswanathan told Cricbuzz. One can’t forget that Fleming isn’t just managing Chennai in the IPL, something he has done since 2009, but other leagues as well.

He serves as the head coach of the Texas Super Kings in the Major League (MLC) and the Joburg Super Kings in SA20. The 2026 edition of the MLC will commence on June 18. So, it’s safe to assume he won’t be removed for that tournament. However, there’s ample time to ponder over his involvement for the IPL 2027 season and SA20.

Meanwhile, CSK haven’t ruled out the possibility of MS Dhoni taking over as the head coach either. Viswanathan has left that decision to Dhoni, who can return to play next year or remain in the dugout in a different capacity, which could be coach or mentor.

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