South African legend signals willingness to take up CSK coaching role in IPL 2027

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Sports Tak

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Former CSK captain MS Dhoni in this frame. (Getty)
Former CSK captain MS Dhoni in this frame. (Getty)

During an interactive Q&A session on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, August 13, South African speed legend Dale Steyn revealed his willingness to re-enter the IPL ecosystem, this time potentially aligned with the Chennai Super Kings. When asked directly by a fan whether he would entertain an approach from the five-time champions, Steyn responded, "Yes possibly."

Dale Steyn sparks CSK coaching rumors on social media

The former fast bowler is no stranger to the league's coaching circuit, having previously served as the bowling coach for Sunrisers Hyderabad during the 2022 and 2023 seasons before stepping away from the role ahead of the 2024 edition for personal reasons and officially parting ways prior to IPL 2025.

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If a deal materialises, taking the reins at CSK would mark Steyn's debut as an IPL head coach. His credentials as a player in the league are extensive, having taken 97 wickets across 95 appearances while representing outfits such as Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Lions. Beyond his franchise resume, Steyn boasts an iconic international career for South Africa, having featured in 93 Tests, 125 ODIs, and 47 T20Is.

Stephen Fleming's departure leaves a void at CSK

In July, Chennai Super Kings and Stephen Fleming officially brought an end to their storied partnership by mutual agreement. Fleming’s journey with the franchise began on the field during the inaugural 2008 season, before he transitioned into the head coaching role ahead of IPL 2009—a position he held through 2015. Over the years, Fleming built a renowned leadership partnership with MS Dhoni, leading him to steer the Rising Pune Supergiant during CSK’s two-year hiatus in 2016 and 2017. Both stalwarts returned to the Chennai setup for IPL 2018, with Fleming remaining at the helm through the 2026 edition.

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Under Fleming’s guidance, the Super Kings enjoyed unprecedented success, securing five IPL titles and reaching the finals ten times. Their most recent championship came in 2023, marking Dhoni’s final campaign as skipper. Moving on to his next coaching chapter, Fleming has taken charge of the England Test side, stepping into the role vacated by Brendon McCullum—who remains focused on England's limited-overs teams. Fleming's international tenure is set to commence with a home Test series against South Africa in December 2026.