Legendary bowler Zaheer Khan has been named as the Chennai Super Kings’ head coach for the IPL 2027 season on a one-year deal, his first stint as a franchise coach. The hiring follows Stephen Fleming’s 16-year stint with the organization, during which he won five IPL titles. Zaheer’s selection marks a significant shift in CSK’s coaching system as the team looks to rebuild after missing the playoffs since 2024.

Prior to joining CSK, Zaheer Khan was a mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants till September 2025. His expertise in high-profile cricket roles spans several years, including his stint with the Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022, where he served as director of cricket operations before becoming global head of development. Zaheer collaborated with head coach Mahela Jayawardene on Mumbai’s title-winning campaigns in 2019 and 2020.

Zaheer Khan’s Background and Experience

Jaffer praised Zaheer Khan interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence as valuable advantages for the part. The former batter highlighted that Zaheer’s ability to comprehend characters and maintain composure under duress made him an excellent candidate for club leadership.

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Jaffer also stated that Zaheer’s recognition at the highest coaching level was long overdue, given his previous contributions to winning teams in support roles. The appointment is CSK’s first Indian head coach in the franchise’s history, indicating a shift in the organization’s approach to leadership after more than a decade and a half under Fleming’s direction.

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