Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the head coach of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
He stepped into the role following the departure of legendary coach Stephen Fleming, who wrapped up his iconic 18-year association with the franchise to join the England Test team as their head coach.
Days after his formal appointment, Zaheer explained how the legendary MS Dhoni influenced his decision to become CSK’s chief coach.
“The procedure was very simple, straightforward. I would say in typical CSK fashion. Obviously, MS has been a great force with CSK, has been very critical in terms of understanding what the direction of the team should be," Zaheer said on CSK’s official YouTube channel.
“The availability was checked, and I said, ‘Yeah, I would love to be part of it’. It would be a privilege and an honor," he added.
Earlier, CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan himself confirmed that the decision to bring Zaheer on board was heavily driven by Dhoni’s suggestion.
“It was not an administrative decision. The cricket committee decided this. It was MS’s suggestion. He spoke to captain Rutu (Ruturaj Gikwad) and both had a discussion with owner Rupa (Gurunath) and thus the decision was arrived at," Viswanathan told Cricbuzz.
This appointment marks Zaheer's first stint as a head coach at any level. He mentored Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) during the IPL 2025 season. He was part of the Mumbai Indians (MI) support staff from 2018-22, serving as the Director of Cricket Operations before being promoted to head of global development.
His immediate next challenge will be collaborating with the CSK leadership to draft a comprehensive player strategy for the upcoming IPL auction.
Zaheer Khan acknowledged the immense pressure that comes with steering one of the most successful and passionately followed franchises in cricket history.
“The feeling is still sinking in, I would say, you know, so much love and affection being shown towards me by the fans and by the well-wishers. Looking ahead to this special chapter in my cricketing career. It always feels very satisfying and feels a lot of pressure as well at the same time because of the responsibilities I will be carrying," Zaheer stated.
“That is something that is going to be very, very challenging and exciting at the same time, because it is just about taking the team to the level that everyone expects them to be. That is something which I am looking forward to," he remarked.
