IPL 2027: MS Dhoni to Become CSK’s Head Coach or Mentor

MS Dhoni is being linked with a bigger Chennai Super Kings (CSK) role after Stephen Fleming stepped down as head coach. There is still no official confirmation that he will become the next head coach or mentor; however, the rumor is in full swing.

CSK are entering a fresh phase after Fleming ended an 18-year association with the franchise, with Dhoni remaining central to every conversation about what comes next.

Fleming’s CSK Exit Biggest Reason Behind Dhoni Coaching Rumors 

Stephen Fleming’s departure from CSK’s coaching duties is why Dhoni’s name has returned to the centre of planning for next season. Fleming stepped down after helping CSK win five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies. 

New CSK Coaching Identity Expected After Fleming Stepped Down

Fleming’s exit also removes the figure with a close link to CSK’s modern coaching identity. The franchise now has to decide whether it wants another outside appointment or an internal solution with deep knowledge of its inner workings. Dhoni is the obvious internal option because he has been the face of the team for nearly two decades.

Why Dhoni CSK Coaching Rumours Keeps Gaining Attention

The latest reports suggest that Dhoni may be given more responsibility by CSK and could even be involved in choosing Fleming’s successor. Several sources also believe he may become the mentor for IPL 2027 and that he could play a major role in the next coaching appointment. 

CSK CEO’s Comments on Dhoni Future Sparks Coach or Mentor Conversation

The rumours linking Dhoni to CSK’s top coaching job is not coming out of nowhere. CSK’s CEO Kasi Viswanathan said earlier in 2026 that Dhoni alone would decide his future with the franchise. The CEO’s comments left room for Dhoni to remain a player or serve as a team coach or mentor. Viswanathan’s comments keeps every door open, but it also means the franchise is clearly prepared for Dhoni to shape the next phase in some capacity.

Ashwin Recently Backed Dhoni for CSK Head Coach Role 

Retired Team India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin recently backed Dhoni as the ideal successor to Fleming, saying there is “no better person” if Ms Dhoni is open to the role.  Ashwin’s view suggests that Dhoni already understands CSK’s culture better than almost anyone else in cricket.

Why Dhoni as CSK Mentor Makes More Sense

The mentor option may be easier to imagine because it matches Dhoni’s current standing and the way CSK often operate. Dhoni may become a mentor in IPL 2027 and may have a say in selecting the new head coach. That position would allow him to shape the franchise without carrying the full-time load of a head coach.

CSK Could Prefer Dhoni for Internal Familiarity

CSK historically value familiarity and trust while picking personnel.  Dhoni is the franchise’s most trusted figure and has been a major part of their rise in IPL cricket  for years.

Fleming’s long tenure built a consistent franchise culture built on teamwork, which makes it unlikely that CSK would now want a noisy replacement.

Would It Be Easy for Him to Move from Player to Coach?

The step from player to coach is not automatic for any player and could introduce major challenges for Dhoni. Head coaches work year-round and make complex planning decisions. They also bear carry the pressure of selection and performance.

A mentor role is different because it can be narrower and more targeted. Dhoni will choose the option he believes he can handle as CSK plot ahead of the 2027 IPL campaign.  

MS Dhoni IPL Batting and Fielding Statistics