Chennai Super Kings are going through a wholesale change in their coaching line-up. The five-time champions failed to qualify for the playoffs in 2025 and 2026. This time, they have appointed Zaheer Khan as the new head coach after parting ways with long-time coach Stephen Fleming. That’s not all. On Monday, CSK announced the departure of long-serving batting coach Mike Hussey, continuing the sweeping revamp of the backroom staff ahead of IPL 2027. Hussey took over as CSK’s batting coach in 2018 after playing six seasons for the franchise. There were four more exits: Eric Simons (bowling coach), Greg King (strength and conditioning coach), Tommy Simsek (physiotherapist), and Rajiv Kumar (assistant batting coach).
“From the very first season in 2008, you have been an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings family,” CSK said on its social media handles while announcing the decision to part ways with Hussey.
“Your journey in Yellow has been defined not just by the runs you scored and the players you mentored, but by the dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment you brought to this franchise over the years.
“Your place in our history will forever remain special, Hussmeister. Once a Super King, always a Super King,” the statement read.
From the very first season in 2008, you have been an integral part of the Chennai Super Kings family. Your journey in Yellow has been defined not just by the runs you scored and the players you mentored, but by the dedication, humility, and unwavering commitment you brought to this franchise over the years. Your place in our history will forever remain special, Hussmeister. Once a Super King, always a Super King. đ
â Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 26, 2026
The Super Kings also officially bid farewell to bowling coach Eric Simons, who has been replaced by former India pacer Mohit Sharma.
Official Announcement: An integral part of the Chennai Super Kings coaching setup since 2018, Eric Simons has played an important role in shaping our bowling unit and contributing to the team’s success over the years. We extend our sincere gratitude for your dedicated service and contributions. Thank you, Eric Simons. Wishing you the very best in your future endeavours.
â Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 26, 2026
“An integral part of the Chennai Super Kings coaching setup since 2018, Eric Simons has played an important role in shaping our bowling unit and contributing to the team’s success over the years.
“We extend our sincere gratitude for your dedicated service and contributions. Thank you, Eric Simons. Wishing you the very best in your future endeavours.”
Rajiv Kumar, the team’s assistant batting coach, and fielding coach James Foster will also not be part of the backroom staff from IPL 2027.
Official Announcement: A valued member of the Chennai Super Kings coaching setup, Rajiv Kumar has contributed significantly to the team’s preparation, development, and performances over the years. Your dedication to working closely with the players, sharing your expertise, and strengthening the team’s foundation has been an important part of our journey. Thank you, Rajiv Kumar. Wishing you all the very best for the future.
â Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 26, 2026
The five-time champions have been below par since winning the league in 2023, finishing fifth (2024), 10th (2025), and eighth (2026) in the subsequent seasons.
Official Announcement: A constant presence behind the scenes since our very first season in 2008, Tommy Simsek has played an invaluable role in the journey of Chennai Super Kings. Your dedication to keeping our players fit and match-ready, including our famous âDad’s Armyâ back in the day, has been an important part of our success over the years. Thank you for your years of service, Tommy Simsek. Wishing you success in the journey ahead.
â Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 26, 2026
Official Announcement: Every successful campaign is built on countless hours of preparation, discipline, and hard work. Greg King, your expertise in strength and conditioning has helped our Super Kings overcome physical challenges and perform at the highest level across seasons. We appreciate everything you have brought to the Yellow Army, Greg King.
â Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 26, 2026
The disappointing run prompted the franchise to end its long association with head coach Stephen Fleming, who has moved on to take charge of England’s Test team.
Former India pacer Zaheer Khan has taken over from Fleming, and next year’s IPL will be his first assignment with the Super Kings.
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