Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the new head coach of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for IPL 2027. On the news of this appointment, fans recalled the relationship MS Dhoni has with Zaheer, projecting a lot of optimism for the franchise in the upcoming season.
Zaheer takes over the position that was vacated by the departure of Stephen Fleming, who oversaw five IPL title wins and two Champions League T20 trophy-winning campaigns for CSK during his significant tenure of 18 seasons.
CSK and Fleming parted ways following the IPL 2026 season, which was CSK’s third consecutive tournament without reaching the playoffs.
Zaheer Khan brings a wealth of experience
Hailed as one of India’s finest bowlers, Zaheer featured in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs, and 17 T20Is and was involved in many great victories of the Indian cricket team, most memorably for playing a crucial role with the ball in the 2011 World Cup, where he was the joint-leading wicket-taker of the tournament.
Following his retirement from professional cricket, Zaheer swiftly moved into the coaching role. His first major coaching job was with the Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2018. He was with MI in various roles: mentor, Director of Cricket Operations, and Global Head of Development of the MI franchises.
He had a brief association with Lucknow Super Giants, where he was the team mentor as well as the in-charge of scouting, planning, and strategy.
In a statement released by CSK, Zaheer said, “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.”
As of now, Zaheer has been appointed the CSK head coach only for IPL 2027, after which there will be a mega-auction.
Fans were quick to point out the relationship and bond Dhoni has with Zaheer, whom Dhoni once hailed as the Sachin Tendulkar of the bowling department, a praise as high as any for a bowler.
MS Dhoni and CSK fans react to Zaheer Khan joining as head coach:
When is IPL auction?
The IPL auction will reportedly take place in mid-December, and this time the mini-auction is expected to be held in India.
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