Zaheer Khan is CSK's new head coach: What it means for IPL 2027

The five-time champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), have announced the former Indian left-arm pacer, Zaheer Khan, as their new head coach ahead of the 2027 season of the tournament. He replaces Stephen Fleming, who ended his 18-year relationship with the franchise after the end of the 2026 edition.

Flemming, meanwhile, has already joined the England side as their new head coach in the Test team, with Brendon McCullum being relieved of his duties to look after the white-ball sides. Zaheer would have a lot of work for the CSK side, whose last Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy came in the 2023 season.

CSK Announce Zaheer Khan as New Head Coach Ahead of IPL 2027

Zaheer, who has never played for the Super Kings as a player in the IPL, takes it as an honour to be part of the side and claimed Chepauk to be a special place during the IPL period as he aims to continue the legacy of the team.

“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 makes it even more special. I can't wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history.” India's Zaheer was quoted as saying by CSK.

The franchise’s owner, Rupa Gurunath, and the captain of the side, Ruturaj Gaikwad, are also excited about the signing, as their managing director, KS Viswanathan, claimed the pacer as a mentor for many young players.

“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.” Rupa Gurunath welcomed Zaheer.

“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.” Kasi Vishwanathan added.

Has Zaheer Khan ever coached an IPL team before? His MI and LSG roles explained

Zaheer has been part of the IPL for 100 games in which he has collected 102 wickets in 99 innings at an average of 27.27 and a fine economy rate of 7.58 with a strike rate of 21.5, thanks to the best bowling figures of 4/17 in an innings.

He has worked at different positions since his retirement from the IPL in 2017. Having played for three teams (Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru), he was appointed as the MI Director of Cricket Operations ahead of the IPL 2019 before becoming their head of global development.

Most recently, he was named as the mentor of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the IPL 2025 but exited the side ahead of the following season.