Chennai Super Kings (CSK) has made significant changes to its coaching staff ahead of the IPL 2027 season. The five-time champions have parted ways with their long-serving batting coach Michael Hussey after an eight-year tenure. Hussey’s departure marks the end of a major chapter for the CSK franchise, where he had been a crucial part since first joining as a player in 2008.
Hussey spent six seasons playing for CSK before retiring from international cricket. In 2018, he returned to the team as a batting coach, working alongside head coach Stephen Fleming. During his coaching stint, the team won the IPL titles in 2018, 2021, and 2023, adding to his legacy with the franchise.
Hussey’s Impact and Legacy
Known as ‘Mr. Cricket’, Michael Hussey played a vital role in both the on-field and coaching success of CSK. The franchise acknowledged his contributions with a heartfelt social media message, praising his long association that started with the very first IPL season in 2008. Over the years, Hussey’s efforts helped shape CSK’s batting strength and contributed to three IPL championships during his coaching tenure.
His achievements with the team include a memorable first century for CSK, winning the Orange Cap in 2013, and being part of key victories in the 2010 and 2011 seasons. His departure symbolizes the end of an era for the popular IPL side.
Other Coaching Departures and New Appointments
Michael Hussey is not the only staff member to leave CSK. Bowling coach Eric Simons, who joined the team in 2018, has parted ways as well. Simons is set to join England’s Test team coaching staff under Stephen Fleming. Former fielding coach James Foster, assistant coach Rajiv Kumar, physiotherapist Tommy Simsek, and trainer Greg King have also exited the franchise.
To fill these gaps, CSK has appointed former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan as head coach following Fleming’s exit. Gareth Batty joins as the assistant coach after leading Surrey to three consecutive County Championship titles from 2022 to 2024. Additionally, ex-India pacer Mohit Sharma has been brought in as the new bowling coach as CSK restructures its support staff.
The overhaul comes after three challenging IPL seasons. Despite their 2023 title win, CSK finished fifth in 2024, dropped to tenth in 2025, and rose slightly to eighth in 2026. The franchise hopes the revamped coaching team led by Zaheer Khan will restore stability and revive their title-winning fortunes in IPL 2027.
This major coaching reshuffle highlights CSK’s intent to rebuild and strengthen the squad’s performance. With fresh leadership and new strategies, the franchise aims to return to the top of the IPL standings and challenge for the trophy once again.
