Chennai Super Kings could be due for a major change in their coaching team and former India cricketer Hemang Badani was recently reported to be one of the top contenders to replace long-time head coach Stephen Fleming.
According to a report published on September 10, 2026, CSK are mulling their options after Fleming (three consecutive seasons without a playoff appearance) has been dismissed. Badani has emerged as one of the strongest candidates but CSK has not officially announced his appointment.
If an Indian head coach is possible CSK fans might not have a positive reaction to that.
Why Hemang Badani Is Being Considered
Badani brings a lot of coaching experience to the table. He has previously been with IPL and is now with Delhi Capitals and also has experience with T20 competitions.
His coaching experience includes a stint with Tamil Nadu Premier League side Chepauk Super Gillies and also with franchises such as Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals.
He has played international cricket and also loves Indian domestic cricket and so his vast knowledge of the IPL would be a great fit for CSK as they begin a new phase.
MS Dhoni's Role adds to the Speculation
The coaching speculation has been intensified given that former CSK captain Dhoni has been appointed to help identify Fleming's successor.
Dhoni has been advocating for an Indian-led support staff, strengthening Badani's position in the race. But the final decision lies with CSK ownership which is also looking at overseas candidates.
That has made the possibility of Badani taking charge particularly interesting for CSK fans.
The fans are divided over the possible appointment.
CSK fans have reacted differently to media reports linking Badani with the job. Some fans believe the franchise requires a fresh Indian voice after years of continuity under Fleming.
Others remain cautious, arguing that replacing a coach with Fleming's record will be tough and CSK should consider an experienced overseas coach before making a final decision.
The debate also speaks to the larger context of CSK. The franchise has enjoyed remarkable success under Fleming and any replacement is going to be watched very closely.
🚨 HEMANG BADANI - FRONT RUNNER TO BECOME CSK COACH ⏳
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 10, 2026
- MS Dhoni is pushing for an Indian led support staff. [Express Sports]
Badani emerged as the front runner, suspense likely to be resolved within 1 or 2 weeks. pic.twitter.com/y8OXjwAHjx
A New Era After Stephen Fleming?
Fleming's departure represents a significant turning point for CSK, as he had been the head coach since 2009 and he had been the key to cultivating the culture and success of the team.
CSK's management is still investigating the advantages and disadvantages of hiring an Indian or overseas coach. Their decision to hire an Indian coach is expected soon.
For now, Badani is still a reported frontrunner but not the coach who has been confirmed as the head coach.
If appointed, his biggest challenge will be to maintain CSK’s winning culture and rebuild a team that has failed to make the playoffs this season and in recent years.
What happens next?
CSK's next coaching appointment will be watched closely by fans and the IPL community at large. If the franchise picks Badani or an overseas candidate, the successor to Fleming will have a lot of expectations on him.
For Badani, the reported opportunity could be one of his biggest coaching assignments.
