Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have announced former India left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan as their head coach for IPL 2027.
Zaheer replaces Stephen Fleming, who ended his 18-year association with the franchise, primarily at the helm of their coaching staff, before taking up a role with England cricket. In July, he was named their men’s Test head coach.
Zaheer has worked at different positions since retiring from IPL in 2017. After playing for three teams (RCB, MI and DC), he was appointed MI’s Director of Cricket Operations ahead of IPL 2019, before becoming their head of global development. More recently, he was named Lucknow Super Giants’ mentor for IPL 2025, but exited the franchise ahead of the subsequent season.
As a player, Zaheer featured in 100 IPL matches, taking 102 wickets at 27.27, adding to his illustrious India career, where he picked 610 wickets across formats.
Speaking on his appointment, Zaheer was quoted as saying by CSK: “It’s an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. 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.”
Rupa Gurunath, owner of the team, welcomed Zaheer into the setup: “We are pleased to confirm Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach for Chennai Super Kings. Zaheer’s distinguished playing career and proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition to our setup. We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise.”
CSK Managing Director KS Viswanathan added: “Zaheer is a world class bowler and has been a mentor to many young cricketers, especially fast bowlers, over the years. 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.”
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