Matthew Hayden: Why RCB's Dinesh Karthik is a really good choice for CSK
**Hayden backs Karthik for CSK boss job** CSK are still hunting for a head coach after Stephen Fleming and the five-time champions split in July, and Aussie legend Matthew Hayden thinks they've found their man in Dinesh Karthik. Speaking on the latest Scoop Extended, Hayden—himself a former CSK player (3 seasons) and current GT batting coach—flagged DK as a strong option. Karthik's been doing the same role for RCB since July 2024, plus mentoring London Spirit in The Hundred. "He's been under the tutelage of world-class coaches—Andy Flower is a great example—who've had hugely successful playing and coaching careers," Hayden said. **The Tamil connection** Here's where it gets interesting. Hayden stressed that DK being a Tamil Nadu local is a genuine asset for the Chepauk side: "Being a local Tamil boy, I feel like that's a really important piece. CSK has always been underpinned by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association, so some local flavour would be the next best step for a franchise that notoriously picks from afar." He even threw in his classic wit: "They drive over fish just to get to fish." **Why local coaches matter in the IPL** Hayden also opened up on the hidden struggle foreign coaches face—language. While veterans cope fine, reaching the next-gen players can be frustrating. A local figure who can bridge that gap, "managing up and down with no language barriers," is a real advantage. Makes sense. Karthik ticks every box. Source: Wisden
