Matthew Hayden Backs Dinesh Karthik as a Future CSK Coach
With CSK seeking a successor to Stephen Fleming, Matthew Hayden says Dinesh Karthik’s Chennai roots and coaching experience make him a strong option.
By SportCricket Desk · 6 Sep 2026 · 3 min read
Matthew Hayden believes Dinesh Karthik would be a good fit as the next head coach of Chennai Super Kings. Speaking on the Wisden Cricket podcast, he called Karthik a really good choice for the franchise.
Replacing Fleming
CSK are looking for a successor to Stephen Fleming, who left earlier this year after 18 years with the franchise to become England’s head coach. Under Fleming, the five-time champions won the IPL in 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021 and 2023.
Why Hayden likes Karthik
Hayden played 32 matches for CSK and was part of the 2010 title-winning side. He highlighted Karthik’s experience of working alongside top coaches such as Andy Flower, and the value of a Tamil Nadu connection.
Karthik was born and raised in Chennai. He retired from international cricket in 2024 and moved into coaching, joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru as batting coach and mentor ahead of IPL 2025, where he worked with Flower.
Hayden noted that CSK have long been supported by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, and said some local flavour would be a sensible next step. He also pointed to the language and cultural hurdles overseas coaches can face in the IPL, arguing a local figure who understands the environment could help.
A team in transition
CSK come off a disappointing IPL 2025, finishing eighth and missing the playoffs. Ruturaj Gaikwad’s side struggled, and MS Dhoni did not play a match. Finding Fleming’s replacement is now one of the franchise’s main priorities.
