Suresh Raina has hinted at a comeback to his former team, Chennai Super Kings, in IPL 2026 this time in a new role as the batting coach. Raina remarked on the commentary in the CSK vs GT match.
Fondly known as “Chinna Thala” by CSK fans, Raina is set to return to the franchise in a coaching capacity. His on-air conversation with Aakash Chopra quickly caught fans' attention. Many were quick to decode that the CSK legend could be stepping in as the team's next batting coach.
CSK Legend Tipped for Coaching Return
During the broadcast, Raina mentioned that CSK is looking to bring in a batting coach next season. Chopra jokingly asked if the coach’s name starts with “S” and if he holds the record for the fastest fifty for CSK. Raina chuckled in response a moment that fans took as a strong hint Raina is coming home.
However, CSK’s spin bowling coach, Sridharan Sriram, remained tight-lipped about Raina's possible role. When asked by the media, he smiled and replied:
“I don’t know. I have to ask him if he said that.”
Raina has been a vital part of CSK’s legacy alongside MS Dhoni since 2008. He was once the IPL’s all-time leading run-scorer, with 5,529 runs in 200 matches. He still holds the record for the fastest fifty for the franchise scored off just 16 balls.
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According to internal chatter, Raina is being considered for the Assistant Batting Coach role and is also a front-runner to replace Rajiv Kumar as Fielding Coach. Rajiv is expected to continue working with CSK in the off-season and will handle scouting responsibilities.
Raina Reflects on CSK’s Season with Powerful Message
Raina last played for CSK in their title-winning 2021 season. He wasn’t picked in the 2022 auction and later retired from the IPL, joining the commentary panel. Now, his potential return to the franchise he helped shape is big news for CSK fans.
After CSK's dominant win over Gujarat Titans, Raina commented on the team’s tough season. His quote quickly went viral:
"If the eagles do not fly for four days, that doesn't mean the sky belongs to the pigeons."
Fans shared it widely, using it to sum up CSK’s journey this season—and to express belief that the five-time champions will come back stronger in 2026.
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