Chennai, Oct 27:
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have parted ways with their long-serving batting coach Mike Hussey as part of a major overhaul of their coaching staff ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The five-time champions have also appointed former England spinner Gareth Batty as assistant coach, with former India pacer Zaheer Khan taking charge as head coach following Stephen Fleming’s departure.
Hussey, affectionately known as the ‘Hussmeister’, joined CSK as a player in 2008 and represented the franchise across six seasons before taking over as batting coach in 2018. He played a significant role in mentoring the team’s batters and remained a key member of the support staff during the franchise’s successful campaigns.
In its farewell message, CSK acknowledged Hussey’s contribution from the franchise’s inaugural season, praising his dedication, humility and commitment. The franchise said his place in its history would remain special, adding: “Once a Super King, always a Super King.”
The restructuring has also seen bowling coach Eric Simons leave the setup, with former India fast bowler Mohit Sharma appointed as his replacement. Assistant coach Rajiv Kumar, fielding coach James Foster and physiotherapist Tommy Simsek will also not continue with the team from IPL 2027.
The changes follow a difficult run for CSK after their 2023 title triumph. They finished fifth in 2024, last in 2025 and eighth in 2026, prompting the management to revamp the coaching structure. Zaheer’s appointment marks a new phase for the franchise, with the former India pacer set to lead the team for the first time in the upcoming season.
Batty, who played nine Tests, 10 ODIs and one T20 International for England, joins CSK after a successful coaching stint with Surrey, guiding the county to three consecutive County Championship titles between 2022 and 2024. He also worked as an assistant coach with MI London in the revamped Hundred competition.
Batty said joining CSK was an exciting new journey for him and his family. His familiarity with Zaheer, stemming from their time at Worcestershire, is expected to help the coaching team work together as CSK attempt to return to title contention in 2027.
The changes signal a fresh approach from the franchise as it prepares for the next season and looks to rebuild after three successive campaigns below its usual standards.