Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have appointed former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan as their new head coach, with the former pacer set to take charge from IPL 2027.
Zaheer becomes only the third head coach in CSK’s history, following Kepler Wessels, who held the position in 2008, and Stephen Fleming. Fleming stepped down in July this year after spending 18 years with the franchise.
The appointment brings extensive IPL experience to CSK’s coaching setup. Zaheer previously worked with Mumbai Indians as Director of Cricket Operations and Head of Global Development between 2018 and 2022. He later joined Lucknow Super Giants as their team mentor in 2025.
CSK owner Rupa Gurunath welcomed the appointment, highlighting Zaheer’s playing career and his work with younger players.
“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.”
Zaheer Brings Extensive IPL Experience to CSK
Fleming guided Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles during his long tenure. However, the franchise struggled to reach the playoffs over the past three seasons. CSK finished eighth in the previous season and ended the campaign in tenth place the year before.
Zaheer is widely regarded as an experienced cricketing mind, and his appointment gives CSK a new voice in the team’s coaching structure.
CSK Managing Director KS Viswanathan also praised the former India bowler’s contribution to Indian cricket and his experience working with young cricketers.
“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 Khan Calls CSK Appointment an Honour
One of Zaheer’s connections within the CSK setup is his friendship with team patriarch MS Dhoni. Although Dhoni is no longer a regular member of the starting XI, he continues to remain an influential figure around the franchise.
Speaking about his appointment, Zaheer said joining CSK was a significant honour and acknowledged the team’s history and strong connection with its supporters at Chepauk.
“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 make it even more special. I can’t wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history.”
IPL 2027 Auction to Be Zaheer’s First Major Assignment
Zaheer’s first major task with CSK will be to work on the team’s squad requirements ahead of the IPL 2027 auction.
His appointment marks a new chapter for the five-time IPL champions after Fleming’s 18-year tenure. The focus will now shift toward building the squad and preparing the franchise for the 2027 season.