Speculation is rife in the cricketing world after Suresh Raina, the iconic former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter, hinted at a sensational return to the franchise—this time in a new avatar as batting coach for IPL 2026. The rumours gained traction following Raina’s cryptic comments during a live broadcast, but official confirmation from the franchise remains pending.
Suresh Raina drops major hint about his IPL return on live TV
During CSK’s final league match of IPL 2025 against Gujarat Titans (GT), Raina, now a commentator, was part of a lively in-studio discussion with Aakash Chopra and Sanjay Bangar. When Chopra pressed Raina about the future of CSK’s coaching staff, specifically the batting coach position, Raina responded with a playful but telling clue: “He has made the fastest fifty,” before breaking into laughter – a clear nod to his own record-breaking 16-ball fifty for CSK in 2014.
Chopra immediately picked up on the hint, quipping, “Chalo ho gaya bhai, you heard it first here!”—fuelling speculation that Raina is indeed in line for the role.
Also READ: Top 5 fastest fifties for CSK in IPL history ft. Dewald Brevis
CSK’s assistant bowling coach responds to Raina’s comments
When questioned about Raina’s possible appointment during the post-match press conference, CSK assistant bowling coach Sridharan Sriram offered a diplomatic response. “I don’t know. I have to ask him if he said that,” Sriram said with a smile, neither confirming nor denying the development. His lighthearted reply has done little to quell the excitement among fans, who are eager for an official announcement.
The buzz around Raina’s return comes at a time when CSK are reeling from a disappointing season, finishing at the bottom of the table for the first time in franchise history. The team’s struggles have intensified scrutiny on the coaching staff, particularly with Michael Hussey currently serving as batting coach since 2018. Raina’s potential appointment could signal a significant shift as CSK looks to rebuild for the future.
Also READ: Twitter reactions – Dewald Brevis sizzles as CSK thrash GT to end IPL 2025 with a dominant win
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