3 coaches who could be better options than Zaheer Khan for CSK

Chennai Super Kings confirmed Zaheer Khan as their new head coach on September 21, 2026, ahead of the IPL 2027 season. The former India left-arm fast bowler takes over from Stephen Fleming, who had held the position for 19 years before being sacked after IPL 2026 concluded.

Zaheer has no prior experience as a head coach of any IPL franchise. His previous roles have been as director, mentor and development official, including a stint as Mumbai Indians’ Director of Cricket Operations and a period as Lucknow Super Giants’ mentor. With Ruturaj Gaikwad continuing as captain, the question is whether CSK could have looked at other candidates with more relevant experience.

Here are 3 names who could have been a better choice as CSK head coach:

3. Brendon McCullum

Brendon McCullum has established himself as one of the most sought-after coaches in world cricket following his transformative work with England’s Test side. The former New Zealand captain is credited with instilling an aggressive and positive team culture wherever he has worked.

His record as a leader and his ability to connect with players from varied backgrounds make him a compelling option for any franchise looking to reset. CSK, coming off a difficult IPL 2026 campaign that saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru claim their second consecutive title, could have benefited from McCullum’s proven ability to rebuild team identity and drive a change in approach quickly.

2. Mike Hussey

Mike Hussey enjoyed a long and celebrated association with CSK as a player and later as a batting coach. The former Australia left-hander was a trusted figure within the franchise setup and understood the demands of the IPL environment from both a playing and support-staff perspective.

His experience working closely with batters at the highest level and his knowledge of CSK’s systems made him a credible candidate for a senior coaching role. Hussey’s calm and methodical approach to the game is well regarded in cricketing circles, and his familiarity with the franchise would have reduced any transition period significantly.

1. Suresh Raina

Suresh Raina served as CSK’s vice-captain for a long time and was one of the franchise’s most consistent performers during his playing career. Former cricketer Aakash Chopra also publicly named Raina as a potential head coach candidate for CSK ahead of IPL 2027, with the suggestion surfacing as early as August 2026

Raina does not hold formal coaching credentials, but Chopra argued this was not a disqualifier, pointing to examples of coaches who had stepped into similar roles without prior coaching experience. Given Raina’s deep familiarity with CSK’s culture, dressing room and playing philosophy, he would have brought an insider’s understanding that an incoming appointment may take time to develop.