Agencies | New Delhi:
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have appointed former India pacer Zaheer Khan as their head coach from the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, marking a major change in the coaching setup of the five-time champions.
Zaheer becomes only the third person to take charge of CSK after Kepler Wessels, who coached the franchise in its inaugural season in 2008, and Stephen Fleming, who stepped down in July after an 18-year tenure.
The former left-arm pacer brings extensive experience in IPL backroom roles. He served as Director of Cricket Operations and Head of Global Development with Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022 before joining Lucknow Super Giants as their team mentor in 2025.
CSK owner Rupa Gurunath said Zaheer’s distinguished playing career and experience in nurturing young talent would strengthen the franchise.
“Zaheer’s distinguished playing career and proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition to our setup,” Gurunath said. “We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise.”
Fleming guided CSK to all five of their IPL titles during his long tenure. However, the franchise struggled in the last two seasons, finishing eighth and 10th and missing the playoffs.
Zaheer is widely regarded for his tactical understanding of the game and his experience working with young fast bowlers. CSK managing director KS Viswanathan said the former India international had been an important figure in Indian cricket and would bring valuable expertise to the franchise.
“Zaheer is a world-class bowler and has been a mentor to many young cricketers, especially fast bowlers, over the years,” Viswanathan said. “As a player, Zaheer was one of the key reasons for India’s success in the 2000s. He’s one of the finest cricketing brains, and we look forward to having him in our family.”
Zaheer also shares a long-standing friendship with CSK stalwart MS Dhoni, who continues to remain an influential figure within the franchise despite no longer being a regular member of the playing XI.
“It’s an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL,” Zaheer said. “As a cricketer, I have faced CSK on the field and have thoroughly enjoyed the contests. The atmosphere created by the Superfans at Chepauk makes it even more special. I can’t wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history.”
Zaheer’s immediate priority will be to assess the squad and identify reinforcements ahead of the IPL 2027 auction as CSK begin preparations for a new chapter under their former India star.
