former indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believe chennai super kings The right time has come to start a new chapter Stephen Flemingof quitting while persisting MS Dhoni If he is willing to take over this role, it will be the best choice. CSK and Fleming agreed to part ways on Tuesday, ending one of the longest and most successful coaching franchise partnerships in IPL history. Fleming joined the team as a player in 2008 and became the head coach in 2009, leading the team to five IPL titles, two Champions League Twenty20 titles, 10 IPL finals and 12 playoff appearances. Ashwin, who worked under Fleming-Dhoni at CSK for a few years, said the partnership has been great but feels the team now needs to look to the future. “Fleming truly understood what was right DhoniDorney understood that Fleming was a great lieutenant, and the partnership lasted a long time. I would say it is time for Chennai Super Kings to look ahead,” Ashwin said on ESPNcricinfo. Ashwin believes Dhoni’s deep understanding of the team makes him an outstanding candidate to replace Fleming if the former India captain is interested in taking charge. “If Dhoni is willing to do that, then there is no better candidate for the Chennai Super Kings,” he said. Ashwin, meanwhile, warned that appointing an external coach will not be easy due to Dhoni’s continued influence within the team. “If not, they need to find someone who can operate independently and be accountable for their actions,” Ashwin said. He also pointed out that whoever takes over will have to work in an environment where Dhoni remains the main voice in cricket matters. “I think for anyone who walks into the dressing room, there is a little bit of uncertainty. Mahendra Singh Dhoni is a big name and he is still a big part of the discussion when you talk about the teams that are going to be selected for the tournament,” Ashwin added. Ashwin’s comments highlight the challenges CSK face as they prepare for life after Fleming. Whether the franchise turns to Dhoni or opts for an independent appointment, the next coaching decision could determine the direction of the franchise for years to come.
