Chennai Super Kings are entering a new phase ahead of IPL 2027 after the end of Stephen Fleming’s long association with the franchise.
As CSK look for a successor to the New Zealand great, former Australia opener and Chennai Super Kings star Matthew Hayden has put forward an Indian candidate he believes could be an ideal fit – Dinesh Karthik.
Hayden feels CSK should consider bringing a strong local connection into the coaching setup, and believes Karthik fits that requirement perfectly. Born in Chennai and a former Tamil Nadu cricketer, Karthik has a deep association with the city and its cricket culture.
“There are names that have been mentioned; one of them was Dinesh Karthik, who I think is probably ready to take on that kind of role,” Hayden said in an interaction with Sportstar.
The former CSK opener believes the head coach of a franchise as closely linked to its city as CSK should understand that local identity. Hayden pointed out that while several IPL franchises have preferred overseas coaches, Chennai could benefit from someone who understands its culture and conditions.
“I think it’s important to have a local coach,” Hayden said, adding that CSK should have a “Chennai touch”, which is why he considers Karthik a perfect candidate.
Karthik Brings Recent Coaching Experience for CSK
Karthik’s case is not based solely on his connection with Chennai. Since retiring from playing, he has moved into coaching and mentoring, becoming part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru support staff.
His association with RCB has coincided with a remarkable period for the franchise, with the Bengaluru side winning consecutive IPL titles in 2025 and 2026. That experience, according to Hayden, makes Karthik increasingly ready for a bigger leadership position.
For CSK, the timing of the appointment makes the decision particularly important. Fleming’s departure brings an end to an 18-year tenure during which he and MS Dhoni formed the core of one of the IPL’s most successful leadership partnerships.
Hayden acknowledged Fleming’s contribution and stressed that CSK must make the right call while choosing his replacement.
“Flemo did a fantastic job with MS Dhoni; that was really such a strong engine room of CSK,” Hayden said.
Hayden’s endorsement therefore offers an interesting alternative to the overseas names that have reportedly emerged in the coaching discussion. Rather than simply replacing Fleming with another international coach, CSK could opt for someone who understands Tamil Nadu cricket, has extensive IPL experience and has already begun establishing himself in a coaching role.