IPL 2027: Chennai Super Kings Opt for Coaching Restructure, Part Ways with Batting Coach Michael Hussey

New Delhi, Oct 29: In a significant restructuring move, five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings have decided to enter the upcoming 2027 tournament without a dedicated batting coach. This decision comes after three consecutive disappointing seasons where the Super Kings failed to secure a playoff berth, prompting the franchise to initiate a comprehensive overhaul of their coaching setup.

Head coach Stephen Fleming and long-serving batting coach Michael Hussey were among those affected by the sweeping changes. Speaking to Sportstar, CSK CEO Kasi Vishwanathan clarified the franchise’s position, stating, “Our coaching staff is now complete with the appointments we announced. As of now, we do not have a dedicated batting coach within our structure.”

While online discussions had suggested former CSK players Ambati Rayudu and Suresh Raina as potential candidates to replace Hussey, neither player will be taking up the vacant position. The franchise has instead chosen to explore alternative support mechanisms for their batting lineup.

On Tuesday, CSK announced further additions to their backroom staff, naming Mohit Sharma as bowling coach and Albie Morkel as assistant coach. The franchise also brought in former England international Gareth Batty, who previously led Surrey to three successive County Championship victories, as a second assistant coach.

Continuing from the previous season’s support team, Sridharan Sriram and James Foster will retain their roles as assistant coach and fielding coach respectively, providing continuity in other areas of the setup.

Despite entering the tournament without a formally appointed batting coach, CSK is reportedly considering an alternative approach. Vishwanathan indicated that Batty might be utilized in an advisory capacity specifically focused on batting instruction. “It’s a decision taken by Zaheer (Khan) not to have a batting coach,” the CEO explained. “However, we are exploring the possibility of having Batty contribute as a batting mentor. Discussions are currently underway.”

As a result of these changes, Chennai Super Kings stand as the only IPL franchise expected to begin the 2027 season without a designated specialist for batting coaching duties.

Meanwhile, speculation regarding a potential involvement from Hardik Pandya continues to circulate. When questioned about these rumors, Viswanathan provided no confirmation, stating simply, “There have been no developments on that front to my knowledge.”

Source link