Foster will join the coaching staff under head coach Stephen Fleming at the Chennai-based franchise. He will work alongside batting coach Michael Hussey and bowling coach Eric Simons, as well as collaborate closely with the leadership group, including former India and CSK captain MS Dhoni and new recruit Sanju Samson.

Between 2001 and 2009, Foster played 23 matches for England as a wicketkeeper. Since retiring from playing in 2018, he has gained extensive coaching experience in franchise cricket. Earlier this year, he served as head coach of the Desert Vipers and led them to the International League T20 title in January. He was also recently appointed assistant coach of Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. Foster has previously been part of coaching staff for both England and New Zealand at the international level.

Foster has spent several seasons with Kolkata Knight Riders, where he held the roles of fielding coach and assistant coach.

Five-time IPL champions CSK will begin their 2026 campaign on March 30 against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati. Their subsequent matches include a home game against Punjab Kings on April 3, an away fixture against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 5, and another home match versus Delhi Capitals on April 11.

CSK endured a challenging 2025 season, finishing last with just four wins in 14 matches. While Ruturaj Gaikwad captained the team for the initial matches, MS Dhoni took over after Gaikwad was ruled out due to injury. The 2026 IPL season is anticipated to be Dhoni’s final appearance in the tournament. With the bat, Dhoni scored 196 runs in 14 matches at an average of 24.50 and a strike rate of 135.17 during IPL 2025.