Chennai Super Kings (CSK)One of the most successful franchises of the Indian Premier League, is preparing for the start of the IPL 2026 season with the opening match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on March 30 in Guwahati. However, ahead of the season, one topic had been dominating the conversation among fans – whether the former CSK star Suresh Raina Will return to the franchise as the fielding coach of the team.
The speculation quickly spread across social media and cricket circles, with many supporters hoping to see the beloved “Chinna Thala” back in yellow. But CSK CEO Kashi Viswanathan Now the rumors have been addressed and the situation has been clarified.
Suresh Raina will be the fielding coach of CSK? Franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan gives update
In a recent conversation with a Tamil news channel, Kasi Vishwanathan strongly rejected reports linking Raina with the role of fielding coach at CSK.
“Suresh Raina is not a fielding coach. This is a baseless rumour.”
The rumors gained momentum after CSK posted a teaser on social media “big announcement” Scheduled for March 22. Fans immediately started speculating that this announcement could be related to Raina’s return to the franchise in a coaching role.
Given Raina’s legendary status at CSK and his long association with the team, the idea excited many supporters. The former Indian batsman was a key figure in CSK’s success during their prime years and remains one of the most loved players in the history of the franchise.
However, the franchise has now confirmed that Raina will not be a part of the coaching setup for the upcoming IPL season.
Who is the new fielding coach of CSK?
While Raina will not be returning to a coaching role, CSK have indeed made a new addition to their support staff. Former England wicketkeeper-batsman james foster Has been appointed as the fielding coach of the team for IPL 2026.
The 45-year-old player has extensive experience in both international cricket and franchise leagues. Foster has previously worked as the fielding coach for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and has also been associated with several T20 teams around the world, including Desert Vipers and Peshawar Zalmi.
Kasi Vishwanathan had earlier confirmed the franchise’s plans to bring in an expert for the role.
“We are looking for a fielding coach. I hope he will join us.”
Foster’s appointment comes at a crucial time for CSK as the franchise looks to rebuild after a tough campaign in IPL 2025, where they finished bottom of the points table for the first time in their history.
The Englishmen will work with an experienced coaching staff under the leadership of head coach Stephen Fleming. Batting coach also included in support team michael husseybowling consultant eric simmonsAssistant bowling coach Sridharan Sriram, and fielding coach Rajeev Kumar.
Also read: IPL 2026 – BCCI announces first phase schedule; RCB will face SRH in the opening match
Will captain CSK in the upcoming season Ruturaj GaikwadWhile the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman ms dhoni Will remain a part of the team, adding invaluable experience and leadership to the team.
Another big development is coming ahead of IPL 2026 sanju samsonWho has joined the franchise through trade from Rajasthan Royals. Samson’s move to CSK follows his remarkable performance at the T20 World Cup 2026, where he was named best player of the tournament.
With new additions to both the coaching staff and playing squad, CSK will be hoping to make a strong comeback this season and return to their winning ways.
