Chennai Super Kings have confirmed a massive overhaul of their coaching setup, parting ways with five key backroom staff members ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League season. The sweeping changes follow a difficult couple of years for the five-time champions, who failed to reach the tournament playoffs in both 2025 and 2026.
Following the appointment of former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan as head coach to replace Stephen Fleming, the franchise announced the departure of long-serving batting coach Mike Hussey on Monday. Hussey joined the team in 2018 after a distinguished playing career with the franchise spanning six seasons.
- Batting coach Mike Hussey leaves after serving the franchise since 2018 following six playing seasons.
- Bowling coach Eric Simons departs, with former India pacer Mohit Sharma stepping in to fill the role.
- Assistant batting coach Rajiv Kumar and fielding coach James Foster also exit the backroom staff.
- Strength and conditioning coach Greg King and physiotherapist Tommy Simsek complete the list of departures.
Coaching Revamp Context
The decision to completely restructure the support staff comes in the wake of disappointing league campaigns. After lifting the trophy in 2023, the Super Kings struggled for consistency, ending the standings in fifth place during 2024 before sliding down to 10th in 2025 and eighth in 2026. This downward trend prompted the franchise to sever ties with long-serving head coach Stephen Fleming, who subsequently accepted a role managing the England Test team.
Looking Ahead to IPL 2027
With Zaheer Khan now at the helm, the management is banking on a completely fresh tactical approach to revitalize the squad. The franchise has moved quickly to secure new personnel, naming Mohit Sharma as the incoming bowling coach to steady the bowling unit. The overhauled backroom team will shoulder the responsibility of rebuilding the team culture and returning the yellow army to championship contention when the tournament commences next year.
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