'There is no rush' - Ruturaj Gaikwad on CSK head coach hunt

Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad confirmed that the franchise has no urgency to appoint a new head coach after having parted ways with Stephen Fleming in July of this year.

The five-time IPL winners decided to part ways with their long-term coach after poor results in the last two seasons. Fleming was signed as a player in the inaugural IPL season in 2008, after which he was made the coach in 2009. Over 17 years, he oversaw five IPL victories and two Champions League T20 triumphs, playing a key role in making the Super Kings one of the most decorated franchises across the globe. Gaikwad stated that with ample time remaining ahead of the start of the 2027 season, there was no rush to appoint a new coach.

"We will have a head coach. The management is obviously thinking about it. There is still plenty of time before the IPL, so there is no rush to make a decision," Gaikwad told the reporters, as quoted by The Tribune.

Gaikwad took over the captaincy of the franchise in 2024 and oversaw finishes in 5th place, 10th place and 8th place in three seasons, failing to make the playoffs. Questions over his captaincy arose after the team's dismal showing in 2026, and the new marquee acquisition of Sanju Samson, who also offers IPL captaincy experience. Gaikwad affirmed his will to continue as the team's skipper, despite having to live up to the legacy of MS Dhoni, who led the franchise to their five IPL titles.

"Yes, it has definitely changed a lot. I won't deny that. Taking over from MS Dhoni comes with a lot of responsibility because of his immense success, and naturally, there are high expectations for more wins and titles. But that's part of the role. As long as I continue to enjoy it, I'm happy to do it," he said.

The skipper reflected on the legacy of the team that they have established with their accolades, and hoped that the fans would be more patient with them during the transition phase that they are currently under.

"As CSK fans and as a franchise, we've been on an incredible journey. Since 2008, almost every cycle has brought us an IPL trophy, and very few franchises have been able to achieve that level of consistency. Our fans have stood by us through some incredible moments, and now we need them to stay with us through the difficult times as well," he concluded.