Former India batsman Suresh Raina has declined to comment on speculation linking him to the vacant Chennai Super Kings batting coach position ahead of IPL 2027. Speaking exclusively to Sports Now, Raina kept his response brief as the franchise reshapes its support staff following Michael Hussey’s departure.
Chennai Super Kings are searching for a new batting figure to oversee their lineup after Michael Hussey left the franchise. Hussey served as batting coach from 2018 to 2026 under head coach Stephen Fleming. With Zaheer Khan taking charge as head coach and discussions underway with Mohit Sharma for the bowling coach role, the five-time champions face a transition behind the scenes.
Suresh Raina Dodges Question on Joining CSK Coaching Staff
Given his long association with the Yellow Army, supporters viewed Raina as a candidate to fill the vacancy. Raina joined CSK in the inaugural 2008 season and remained a cornerstone of their batting order until 2015, helping secure four of the franchise’s five IPL titles. After captaining the Gujarat Lions during CSK’s suspension years in 2016 and 2017, he returned to the franchise from 2018 until 2021 before going unsold in the 2022 mega-auction and moving into commentary.
Across his Indian Premier League career, the left-hander appeared in 205 matches, stepping up to the crease in 200 innings to compile 5,528 runs powered by 39 half-centuries and a single century. These numbers place him sixth overall on the league’s all-time run-scoring charts, trailing only Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, David Warner, and KL Rahul. Out of that total tally, 841 runs were scored during his tenure with the Gujarat Lions across two seasons. Fondly remembered by supporters as Mr. IPL for his remarkable consistency over the years, he also stepped up to captain the side whenever MS Dhoni was unavailable, forming a partnership alongside a leader he has always deeply admired.
When asked during an exclusive interaction whether he would take up the open role, the former India star offered no confirmation. As reported during the jersey launch of the Indian Softball Cricket League second season, the former batter chose to keep his cards close to his chest.
Raina Backs Mohammed Shami for National Team Return
While staying quiet on his own coaching prospects, Raina turned his attention to international cricket, voicing support for fast bowler Mohammed Shami.