Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are preparing for a significant overhaul of their coaching staff ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season. The franchise, which is looking to reshape its support structure, has already made several major changes, with former Australian batter Michael Hussey becoming the latest high-profile name to leave the setup. The decision marks the end of an eight-year stint as CSK’s batting coach, although Hussey could continue his IPL journey with another franchise.
Why CSK parted ways with Michael Hussey ahead of IPL 2027
Hussey’s departure is part of a broader restructuring exercise underway at CSK as the franchise prepares for the next edition of the tournament. The management has also moved on from head coach Stephen Fleming, appointing former India pacer Zaheer Khan as his replacement.
There has been another change in the bowling department, with Eric Simons leaving his position and Mohit Sharma coming in as the new bowling coach. These appointments indicate that CSK are looking to establish a refreshed coaching structure before the 2027 campaign.
The future of fielding coach James Foster also remains uncertain. The former England international joined CSK last year, but a decision regarding the extension of his contract has reportedly been put on hold. Foster has apparently been informed about the situation, although no final decision on his future has been announced.
CSK have yet to reveal who will take over Hussey’s responsibilities as batting coach. The remaining appointments are expected to become clearer after franchise owner Rupa Gurunath returns to India from South Africa, where she recently attended the SA20 auction.
Hussey’s long association with Chennai Super Kings
Hussey has enjoyed a lengthy association with CSK, first representing the franchise as a player before moving into a coaching role. He joined the team in 2008 and, after sitting out the 2009 season, played for CSK from 2010 to 2013. The Australian returned to the franchise in 2015 after spending the 2014 season with Mumbai Indians. Following the conclusion of his playing career with CSK, Hussey transitioned into coaching and became the team’s batting coach in 2018, working alongside Fleming for eight years.
During his time in the coaching setup, Hussey also developed a strong professional relationship with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. His departure therefore represents a notable change for a franchise that has relied on continuity in their coaching structure over several seasons. However, the decision appears to be part of the wider changes rather than an isolated move involving the batting coach.
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Could Hussey join another IPL franchise?
Although CSK have removed Hussey from their coaching roster, his departure does not necessarily mean the end of his involvement in the IPL. Reports indicate that the former Australian international has already been in contact with a few franchises, raising the possibility of him taking up a coaching position elsewhere ahead of the 2027 season.
Meanwhile, CSK’s recent appointments appear to reflect MS Dhoni‘s influence on the team’s evolving support staff. Both Zaheer and Mohit have been brought into important coaching positions, and Dhoni is expected to be involved in discussions surrounding further recruitment.
Once Gurunath returns to India, the franchise is expected to consult Zaheer and Dhoni before finalising the remaining coaching positions. With several decisions still pending, CSK’s coaching overhaul is far from complete. The coming months should provide greater clarity on the team’s support staff and whether Hussey will continue his IPL career with a new franchise.
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