Chennai: Former India captain and chief selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth has strongly dismissed the prospect of former England captain Eoin Morgan becoming the next head coach of the Chennai Super Kings, advising him to instead "stick to commentary."

The Chennai-based Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise is currently seeking a successor to Stephen Fleming, who recently ended his 18-year tenure with the team to take over as England’s Test head coach.

Recent speculation, fuelled by comments from former CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, suggested that Morgan could be a leading candidate for the role. However, Srikkanth, speaking on his own YouTube channel, firmly rejected the idea.

"I won't go for Eoin Morgan for sure," Srikkanth said. "He was a good player and a good captain for England. But as a coach, I won't accept him as an option. Even for KKR [Kolkata Knight Riders] as their captain, he didn't do anything great. It'll be best if he just sticks to commentary."

Srikkanth also advised the five-time IPL champions against appointing current England white-ball coach Brendon McCullum, whose name has similarly surfaced in discussions. He noted that the franchise should say no to both men.

Instead, the former national selector voiced his support for an internal promotion, naming current CSK batting coach Michael Hussey as his preferred candidate.

"CSK don't need anyone from outside when they have Mr Cricket with them," Srikkanth said, referring to the Australian's popular moniker. "Michael Hussey should be the automatic head coach. He will be the best choice."

Despite his endorsement of Hussey, Srikkanth emphasised that the franchise must first resolve the future of legendary captain MS Dhoni before finalising its coaching structure. Dhoni did not feature in the 2026 IPL season, leaving his ongoing involvement with the team uncertain.

"What will MS Dhoni's place in CSK be going forward? That arrangement has to be fixed first, and only then will everything else fall in place," Srikkanth added.

Fleming’s departure marks the end of one of the most successful coaching partnerships in IPL history. Under his guidance, operating alongside Dhoni, Chennai secured five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies.