Chennai Super Kings are looking for a new head coach ahead of IPL 2027, and former Australia opener Matthew Hayden has backed an Indian name for the high-profile role. Hayden believes Dinesh Karthik could be the right person to take over from Stephen Fleming and bring a stronger local connection to the franchise.
Fleming's 18-year association with CSK has come to an end, leaving the five-time IPL champions with a major decision over their next head coach. Several names have been linked with the vacancy, but Hayden has specifically identified Karthik as his preferred choice.
Hayden explained that Karthik is ready for the responsibility and has the kind of connection with Chennai that could benefit CSK.
"Dinesh Karthik is probably ready to take on that role. It's important to have a local coach," Hayden said.
He further pointed to Karthik's Chennai roots while explaining why he would be a suitable candidate for the position.
"CSK should have that local touch, even Chennai touch, which is why Dinesh would be perfect," Hayden added.
Why Hayden Wants a Local Coach
Karthik's connection with Chennai is one of the strongest factors behind Hayden's recommendation. Born in Chennai, the former India wicketkeeper-batter represented Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket and has spent much of his career closely associated with the city and its cricketing culture.
Karthik also has recent experience working within an IPL coaching environment. He is currently associated with Royal Challengers Bengaluru as a mentor, giving him exposure to the tactical and strategic aspects of franchise cricket beyond his playing career.
For CSK, the appointment would represent a major change after nearly two decades under Fleming. The New Zealand great became synonymous with the franchise's coaching structure and worked closely with MS Dhoni throughout CSK's most successful period.
Who Else Is in the Race?
CSK have not officially appointed Fleming's successor yet. Former England captain Eoin Morgan and former CSK batter Michael Hussey have also been mentioned among the possible candidates.
Hayden's comments, therefore, represent a recommendation rather than an indication that Karthik is set to become CSK's next head coach.
The timing of the coaching search is significant for CSK after the franchise endured another difficult IPL campaign. The five-time champions finished eighth in IPL 2026 and missed the playoffs for the third successive season.
The franchise will now have to decide whether to continue with a familiar overseas coaching structure or move towards a new model with greater Indian and Chennai influence.
What About MS Dhoni?
Dhoni remains an important part of the wider CSK conversation, but Hayden's recommendation is specifically about the head coach position. The former India captain has been central to CSK's identity since the inaugural IPL season, while Fleming's coaching tenure ran alongside Dhoni's leadership for most of that period.
Hayden's suggestion does not indicate that Dhoni is being considered for the coaching role. Instead, he has singled out Karthik as the Indian candidate he believes could provide CSK with the local connection the franchise needs.
For now, the decision remains with CSK. Whether the franchise follows Hayden's advice and appoints Karthik—or chooses another successor to Fleming—will become one of the key developments ahead of IPL 2027.
