New job opening in CSK, commotion ensues as Dwayne Bravo moves to KKR; These 3 veterans can become the new bowling coach

Dwayne Bravo Replacement CSK: Dwayne Bravo was the bowling coach of Chennai Super Kings after retiring from IPL in 2022.

Who will be the bowling coach of CSK?
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Dwayne Bravo Retirement:

West Indies’ legendary all-rounder Dwayne Bravo announced his retirement from all formats of cricket on 26 September. Just a day after his retirement, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has announced Bravo as the team’s new mentor for IPL 2025. Dwayne Bravo was playing the role of bowling coach of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL for the last 2 seasons. Now the question is who will replace Dwayne Bravo as bowling coach in Chennai Super Kings? So let’s know about those 3 big names, who can replace Bravo as bowling coach in CSK.

Contents

Dwayne Bravo Retirement: 1. Bharat Arun 2. Anil Kumble 3. Albie Morkel 1. Ashish Nehra: The Tactical Genius 2. Lakshmipathy Balaji: A Familiar Face 3. Zaheer Khan: The Master Strategist The Bravo Factor: Filling Big Shoes Conclusion: The Road Ahead for CSK Gadgets I use

1. Bharat Arun

Bharat Arun has been the bowling coach of Kolkata Knight Riders till now. It is expected that if Dwayne Bravo is coming to KKR as a mentor, then he can also be given the role of bowling coach. In such a situation, 61-year-old Bharat Arun may be relieved from KKR. Arun has previously been the bowling coach of the Indian cricket team from 2014-2016, then from 2017-2021. He was the bowling coach of IPL champion KKR in 2024 and if Kolkata releases him for the next season, then CSK will not shy away from adding an experienced bowling coach to its team.

2. Anil Kumble

Anil Kumble, who has taken the most 956 wickets in international cricket for India, has been the head coach of Team India in 2016-2017. He has been the mentor of RCB and MI and was also the head coach of Punjab Kings from 2020-2022. Kumble has no shortage of coaching experience, so CSK can also consider him as an option for bowling coach.

3. Albie Morkel

South African veteran all-rounder Albie Morkel played for Chennai Super Kings from 2008-2013. After retiring from cricket in 2019, he served as assistant coach of the Namibian cricket team till 2021. He also has experience of bowling coaching the Bangladesh cricket team and Texas Super Kings in MLC 2023. He has played under CSK’s current head coach Stephen Fleming, so Morkel’s association with him can prove to be a profitable deal for CSK.

In a surprising turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling coach and all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has made a high-profile move to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Known for his charismatic personality and game-changing performances, Bravo’s shift has left a significant void in CSK’s coaching setup, particularly in the bowling department. As CSK gears up for IPL 2025, fans are eagerly speculating on who will take up the crucial role of bowling coach for the iconic franchise.

While the search is on for a replacement, three veteran candidates stand out as the frontrunners to fill Bravo’s shoes and guide CSK’s bowling attack in the next season.

1. Ashish Nehra: The Tactical Genius

A seasoned fast bowler with an in-depth understanding of the game, Ashish Nehra is a name that naturally emerges in discussions about top-level coaching roles in IPL. Nehra has already tasted success as a coach, having played a pivotal role in Gujarat Titans’ title-winning run in IPL 2022. His calm demeanor, combined with a sharp cricketing brain, makes him an ideal candidate for CSK.

Nehra’s ability to nurture young talents and his experience of having been part of the IPL ecosystem for over a decade could serve CSK’s relatively young bowling unit well. Moreover, his understanding of the nuances of fast bowling, swing, and reverse swing, especially on Indian pitches, could be crucial for CSK’s resurgence after the departure of Bravo.

2. Lakshmipathy Balaji: A Familiar Face

Another strong contender for the CSK bowling coach role is Lakshmipathy Balaji, a former CSK player who has previously served as the franchise’s bowling coach. Balaji’s familiarity with the team dynamics, the CSK culture, and the conditions at Chepauk makes him a perfect fit. Having worked with MS Dhoni and Stephen Fleming in the past, Balaji shares a deep bond with the team management, which could make for a seamless transition.

Known for his tactical acumen and his ability to motivate players, Balaji has a proven track record with CSK and could return to reclaim the role he once held. His expertise in honing both fast bowlers and spinners alike makes him a valuable asset, especially in CSK’s home games where spin often plays a key role.

3. Zaheer Khan: The Master Strategist

Zaheer Khan, one of India’s greatest fast bowlers, could be another exciting option for CSK. Having previously worked as the Director of Cricket Operations and bowling consultant for Mumbai Indians, Zaheer brings a wealth of experience both as a player and coach. His tactical insights, particularly in managing the bowling workload in a long tournament like the IPL, make him an attractive candidate for the role.

Zaheer’s ability to analyze opposition batters and devise strategies to counter them has earned him respect across the cricketing fraternity. His guidance could help CSK’s young pacers like Deepak Chahar and Matheesha Pathirana take their game to the next level. Zaheer’s calm but authoritative presence in the dressing room could also help maintain a positive atmosphere, crucial for a team aiming for yet another title run.

The Bravo Factor: Filling Big Shoes

Dwayne Bravo was not just a coach; he was an entertainer, a leader, and a mentor who brought the best out of CSK’s bowling unit. His infectious energy, coupled with his ability to deliver in clutch moments, made him a key figure both on and off the field. Replacing someone of Bravo’s stature is never easy, but CSK has always prided itself on fostering a culture of trust and loyalty, which will likely guide them in this transition.

While Bravo’s move to KKR is a loss for CSK, it opens up exciting possibilities for the team to bring in fresh ideas and new perspectives. The incoming bowling coach will inherit a talented unit with a mix of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters, all of whom will be keen to learn and grow under a new mentor.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for CSK

As CSK prepares for the IPL 2025 season, the search for a new bowling coach will be a critical decision that could shape their campaign. With Bravo’s exit, the franchise has a unique opportunity to bring in a coach who can not only maintain the high standards set by their former champion but also inject new life into the bowling department.

Whether it’s the tactical genius of Ashish Nehra, the familiar leadership of Lakshmipathy Balaji, or the strategic acumen of Zaheer Khan, CSK has plenty of experienced candidates to choose from. One thing is certain—whoever takes on the mantle will have big shoes to fill, but they will also have the chance to add to CSK’s legacy as one of the most successful franchises in IPL history.

The clock is ticking, and the world is watching as CSK looks to finalize their next bowling coach, aiming for another triumphant run in IPL 2025.