Zaheer Khan is reportedly in talks with Lucknow Super Giants about the mentor post. Gautam Gambhir moved to Kolkata after IPL 2023, leaving the Super Giants without a mentor, while Morne Morkel's resignation has created a fresh vacancy.

Both Gambhir and Morkel, the side's bowling coach for three seasons, have either joined or are about to join the Indian national squad.

Zaheer is being considered for the mentor role, and he might also help the Lucknow Super Giants bowlers. He will also serve as a crucial mediator, or go-between, for players and the franchise's management, whose owner is known to be very passionate about the game.

Zaheer was originally seen as a prospective bowling coach in Gambhir's new Team India outfit, specifically to mentor the team's young and future pacers. Zaheer Khan's possible involvement with the Indian team did not materialize, as BCCI selected Morkel, possibly on Gambhir's recommendation.

However, the former India bowler has substantial coaching expertise in the IPL, having previously worked for the Mumbai Indians.

If the two sides work out a deal, Zaheer is set to work with head coach Justin Langer and a strong team of coaches, including Adam Voges, Lance Klusener, and Jonty Rhodes, among others.

Zaheer, 45, played 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is for India along with 100 IPL games, which saw him represent Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Royal Challengers Bangalore (now Royal Challengers Bengaluru,u) and Mumbai Indians.

(Cricbuzz inputs)