Former BCCI and ICC chief N. Srinivasan has been named chairman of Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited (CSKCL), just months before the IPL 2026 auction. This comes after significant changes within the CSK franchise.
In December 2024, India Cements, the original owner of CSK, sold its cement business to UltraTech, which temporarily removed Srinivasan and his family from the team’s board. Both Srinivasan and his daughter, Rupa Gurunath, returned as directors in February 2025. Now, at 80 years old, Srinivasan has officially taken over as chairman, replacing his cousin R. Srinivasan, according to CSKCL’s 2025 annual report.
ICC Appoints Srinivasan as Its First Chairman
Srinivasan played a key role in creating CSK in 2008 and helped make it one of the most successful IPL teams. While he didn’t manage the players directly, his position as head of India Cements gave him strong influence over the team’s direction and culture.
He became BCCI president in 2011 and held great power but had to step down during the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal, which also caused CSK’s two-year suspension. Later, he was appointed the first ICC chairman in 2014, but his term ended in 2015 due to conflict-of-interest issues.
Srinivasan has returned as CSK chairman, with his trusted associate K. S. Viswanathan staying on as managing director until 2028. Rupa Gurunath has also been named a full-time director. His comeback has raised questions about the future of CSK’s star player, MS Dhoni. With the legendary captain expected to play his final IPL season in 2026, fans are wondering if the new management under Srinivasan will give him a proper farewell or if the team is already planning a transition.
“The 18th season of the Indian Premier League started on 22nd March 2025, with matches held until June 2025. Although Chennai Super Kings did not make it to the Knockouts this season, we are hopeful for a stronger comeback and better performance in the future.”
The company is growing its presence worldwide by taking part in T20 leagues in other countries through its international teams, like the ‘Joburg Super Kings’ in South Africa’s CSA T20 League and the ‘Texas Super Kings’ in the USA’s Major League Cricket. It is also expanding the number of its cricket academies abroad. CSKCL says it is creating, running, and improving various sports academies and performance centers, with more planned in the near future. Additionally, CSK plans to update its Memorandum of Association to earn money from its playgrounds, courts, stadiums, and other facilities and land it owns. The extra income from this plan will support the company’s existing business.
FAQ
Who is N Srinivasan?
N Srinivasan is a veteran cricket administrator and former president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
What role has N Srinivasan been appointed to in CSK?
He has been appointed as the chairman of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the IPL 2026 season.
What are N Srinivasan’s past contributions to cricket?
He has served as BCCI president, been involved with the Indian Premier League (IPL), and played a key role in the growth of Indian cricket infrastructure.
How might his leadership impact CSK’s performance?
His experience in cricket governance and team management is likely to enhance CSK’s on-field strategy and overall franchise operations.