Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) stars R Ashwin and Matthew Hayden recently opened up on the chances of becoming the team’s new head coach. The five-time champions are on the hunt for a new name after ending their 18-year-long association with Stephen Fleming.Chennai parted ways with Fleming following the underwhelming 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) campaign. The side failed to qualify for the playoffs for the third consecutive year.Ashwin and Hayden recently discussed the possibility of one of them taking over the coaching duties from Fleming.
On being asked about his thoughts on taking up the role, Ashwin remarked on Crikipidea’s Instagram video:”Look, I think, honestly, the third year going into the auction, I am not sure how easy it is for a coach to come in.”In the video, Ashwin told Hayden that many expect him to be CSK’s new head coach. The Australian opener, however, clarified that he has not been approached by the franchise for the position.
“I have never been asked,” said Hayden.Notably, Ashwin announced his retirement from the IPL following the 2025 edition. He returned to Chennai for his final season. Hayden, on the other hand, was appointed as Gujarat Titans’ (GT) batting coach ahead of IPL 2026.”I think he should stay with RCB” – Former IPL winner opens up on CSK’s options for coaching roleFormer CSK batter Subramaniam Badrinath feels Dinesh Karthik should not leave Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to become Chennai’s new head coach.
His comments came after Matthew Hayden backed Karthik for the role.Badrinath, however, suggested that the former India wicketkeeper should remain with RCB, given his successful stint. He said on his YouTube channel:”If I were Dinesh Karthik, I would think twice about coming to CSK. He will probably think long and hard, but I think he should stay with RCB. He’s in a good space with RCB.
Everything has aligned perfectly there, and all the players are at their peak in RCB. They are in the space where CSK were in the first eight to ten years of the IPL.”Karthik has had a wonderful run as RCB’s batting coach and mentor. The Bengaluru-based franchise is on an all-time high following back-to-back title victories in 2025 and 2026.
Source: www.sportskeeda.com
