Chennai Super Kings (CSK), one of the most successful franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has appointed former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan as head coach for the 2027 season. Zaheer takes over from Stephen Fleming, who concluded a 16-year tenure in the role, during which he guided the team to five IPL titles.

Zaheer comes to CSK with extensive experience in both playing and coaching. The 41-year-old former fast bowler featured in 92 Test matches, 200 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 17 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for India over a 14-year international career. His IPL playing career includes 100 matches across various teams. Since retiring as a player, Zaheer has concentrated on coaching and mentoring roles.

Prior to joining CSK, Zaheer served as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants until 2025. He also spent several years with Mumbai Indians, initially as Director of Cricket Operations from 2018 before transitioning to Global Head of Development, overseeing the franchise’s expanding T20 team portfolio worldwide. However, his new role with Chennai Super Kings marks his first appointment as head coach.

Rupa Gurunath, owner of Chennai Super Kings, emphasized Zaheer’s ability to foster young talent and his high-level playing experience as valuable assets for the team’s future. “We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise,” she said.

KS Viswanathan, Managing Director of CSK, highlighted Zaheer’s reputation as a world-class bowler and influential mentor, particularly for emerging fast bowlers. “He’s one of the finest cricketing brains, and we look forward to having him in our family,” Viswanathan added.

Zaheer expressed pride and enthusiasm at joining a franchise with a rich history and passionate fan base. “It’s an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL,” he said. Reflecting on his playing days, he praised the competitive spirit of matches against CSK and the unique atmosphere created by the team’s supporters at the Chepauk Stadium.

The appointment comes as CSK prepares for the upcoming season, aiming to build on their legacy with Zaheer Khan at the coaching helm.