MS Dhoni’s Two Conditions for CSK’s New Head Coach

Chennai Super Kings are yet to announce the successor to long-serving head coach Stephen Fleming, who stepped down nearly two months ago. Although several names have been linked with the position, the franchise has not made an official announcement yet. IPL sources reportedly indicate that CSK could take a decision as early as next week. Amid the speculation, MS Dhoni is said to have placed two conditions before the management. First, the new head coach should be Indian, with the support staff also preferably comprising Indian coaches. This could affect the prospects of former Australian cricketer Mike Hussey, who has served as CSK’s batting coach in recent years and was considered one of the leading candidates to succeed Fleming.

Dhoni’s second reported condition is that the new head coach should work exclusively with CSK and not take up coaching responsibilities with the franchise’s teams in other leagues. Fleming previously handled coaching duties for Johannesburg Super Kings and Texas Super Kings as well. Against this backdrop, Delhi Capitals head coach Hemang Badani has emerged as a potential candidate. Badani is an Indian coach with considerable experience and is currently associated with the Capitals setup. He is also understood to share a good rapport with Dhoni. It remains to be seen whether CSK will eventually opt for Badani or choose another candidate for the crucial role.