Reports: CSK wishlist Hemang Badani as head coach, final call rests with MS Dhoni

CSK Eye Badani for Head Coach Job — But Dhoni's Exclusivity Clause Could Sink It

Chennai Super Kings have shortlisted Hemang Badani as their top pick for head coach, with MS Dhoni spearheading the search for an India-led support staff. This follows CSK parting ways with Stephen Fleming back in July 2026 after missing the IPL playoffs for the third year running.

Here's the catch. Dhoni's non-negotiable condition: the incoming coach must commit exclusively to CSK with zero concurrent overseas franchise commitments. For Badani, that's a serious problem — he's currently juggling head coach roles at Southern Brave (The Hundred) and Dubai Capitals (ILT20), plus a consultant gig with Seattle Orcas. He'd have to walk away from all three.

Why Badani makes sense on paper: he led Delhi Capitals to 5th and 6th in the '25 and '26 IPLs, and has lifted trophies across SA20, ILT20, and LPL. His Tamil Nadu playing background also gives him that natural Chennai connect.

But let's be realistic — his odds are cooling as the search drags on. Reports suggest CSK ownership is ALSO eyeing overseas candidates, and ultimately the final call rests with them, not Dhoni alone.

The context: Fleming spent nearly 18 years with CSK — 11 finals, 6 titles. One of the most successful coach-franchise partnerships in T20 history, now closed. With CSK finishing 10th in '25 and 8th in '26, the pressure to move fast is real. Albie Morkel's already locked up at Joburg Super Kings, so the coaching market is reshuffling quickly. Expect CSK's official announcement in the coming weeks.

My read: Badani has the pedigree, but the exclusivity clause is a genuine dealbreaker. CSK will either find someone without baggage, or accept a lower-profile name who can go all-in. This one's worth watching.

Source: Crictracker