“With Dhoni there, is there a requirement for another alpha?” - Former teammate on CSK’s new coaching setup for IPL 2027
Ashwin said CSK needs a fresh direction as Dhoni’s influence could complicate any new coach’s authority, with the franchise seeking a more independent voice.
- On Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings and head coach Stephen Fleming mutually parted ways, ending one of the Indian Premier League's most successful partnerships after 17 years.
- Fleming joined CSK as a player in 2008 and became head coach from 2009, building one of franchise cricket's most respected setups over 17 years.
- Under Fleming, CSK won five IPL trophies and 2 Champions League Twenty20 tournaments while entering playoffs a record 12 times, with Ashwin noting Fleming understood what made Dhoni tick.
- Ashwin believes Dhoni would be the ideal successor if willing to take the coaching role, given his deep understanding of the team; otherwise, CSK needs an independent operator.
- Any new coach will face uncertainty because Dhoni remains a huge name and continues playing a significant role in squad selection discussions, creating a fundamental challenge for succession.
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9 Articles
'No better person': Ashwin backs MS Dhoni to succeed Stephen Fleming as CSK head coach
Ravichandran Ashwin discussed Chennai Super Kings' new chapter after Stephen Fleming's departure. He believes MS Dhoni would be the ideal choice to lead the team. Ashwin noted the exceptional Fleming-Dhoni partnership that brought significant success. He also highlighted the challenges for any new coach due to Dhoni's influence. The franchise faces a crucial decision shaping its future direction.
MS Dhoni projected as next coach of CSK after Stephen Fleming's departure: ‘There is no better person’
R Ashwin backed MS Dhoni to succeed Stephen Fleming as CSK coach, warning any outsider must be given freedom to work independently and take accountability.
There is no better person... Ashwin backs Dhoni as ideal successor to Fleming - The Tribune
Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Indian veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes CSK should begin planning beyond Stephen Fleming's long tenure as head coach, saying the franchise has reached a stage where it needs a fresh direction.
“With Dhoni there, is there a requirement for another alpha?” - Former teammate on CSK’s new coaching setup for IPL 2027
Veteran MS Dhoni's former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) teammate Ravichandran Ashwin said that the 45-year-old must take over as the new head coach of the franchise.
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