Zaheer Khan Named New Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings Ahead of IPL 2027

The Chennai Super Kings have appointed former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan as the franchise’s new head coach for the 2027 IPL season, concluding an extensive search for a successor to Stephen Fleming. The five‑time champions announced the appointment on Monday, September 21.

Zaheer will succeed Fleming, whose 18‑year tenure as CSK’s head coach ended earlier this year. Fleming served as the team’s head coach since 2009 and led the franchise to five IPL championships and two Champions League T20 titles.

The appointment marks a major milestone in Zaheer’s post‑playing career. The former India left‑arm fast bowler has already built notable experience in IPL team management, having worked with Mumbai Indians in senior cricket‑development roles and later joining Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor.

During his playing days Zaheer featured in 100 IPL matches, taking 102 wickets. Internationally he represented India in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is, and was the leading wicket‑taker for India during the 2011 World Cup‑winning campaign.

Khan said, “It is an honour to be part of one of the most successful teams in IPL history. As a cricketer I have faced CSK on the field and thoroughly enjoyed those contests. The atmosphere created by the Superfans at Chepauk makes it even more special. I cannot wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history.”

His coaching and management career began with Mumbai Indians, where he held the roles of Director of Cricket Operations and later Global Head of Cricket Development. He then joined Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor for IPL 2025.

The move also reunites Zaheer with several familiar faces from Indian cricket, marking his biggest coaching assignment in the IPL to date.

Source link