R Ashwin says Eoin Morgan is strongly linked to CSK head coach role

Former India spinner R Ashwin said on his YouTube channel on August 12, 2026 that Eoin Morgan is strongly linked to the Chennai Super Kings head coach vacancy ahead of the IPL 2027 season. Ashwin added that the franchise could announce a decision imminently.

IPL franchises have already begun working behind the scenes ahead of the IPL 2027 season, with player trades, coaching changes and rebuilding under discussion. Chennai Super Kings have struggled in recent seasons and missed the IPL playoffs in each of the last three campaigns. Stephen Fleming has ended his long association with the franchise, leaving a vacancy for a successor to one of the competition’s most successful coaches. CSK are five-time champions and Ashwin has represented the franchise during his IPL career.

The suggestion that Morgan could be appointed surprised some observers because he has never worked as a head coach at international or franchise level. Since retiring from professional cricket, Morgan has mainly been involved in commentary and broadcasting.

Morgan’s record as a captain is cited in support of his candidacy: he led England to their first-ever ODI World Cup title in 2019 and is credited with changing England’s approach to white-ball cricket. He also captained Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL 2021 final and has been praised for his tactical thinking and calm leadership.

Ashwin said the franchise may not rush into a permanent appointment and that MS Dhoni could oversee the side for a season while CSK prepare for the next auction cycle, stating: “Personally, I feel this will go to MS Dhoni and be run by the others. I think that will be the right decision because appointing a replacement for Fleming is a touch late with the mega auction just a year away.”

“I have a strong hunch. Eoin Morgan’s name is strongly linked to the CSK head coach role, per my sources. I think a decision will be made in the next week,” Ashwin said.