Zaheer Khan Announced CSK Head Coach Before IPL 2027

Sakshi Sharma

CSK Appoints Zaheer Khan As New Head Coach Ahead Of IPL 2027 (Source: AFP)

In a significant development, the wait is finally over as MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have appointed former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan as the new head coach ahead of IPL 2027. Zaheer will take over from Stephen Fleming, who was associated with CSK for 18 years, from 2009 to 2026.

Zaheer Khan is one of India's most respected fast bowlers and will bring plenty of cricket experience to the CSK setup for IPL 2027.

Zaheer Khan Joins CSK As New Head Coach

Several former cricketers were reportedly considered for the CSK coaching role, including Eoin Morgan, Ravichandran Ashwin, Hemang Badani and Michael Hussey. However, the franchise appointed Zaheer Khan as CSK’s head coach.

It is important to mention that the former Indian fast bowler is set to take charge as a head coach for the first time in his career.

CSK made the announcement on social media with the message -

Left Arm “Taking” Over! 💫🦁

Welcoming Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings!

#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛

Speaking on his appointment as CSK's head coach ahead of IPL 2027, Zaheer Khan was quoted as saying by CSK -

"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."

Chennai Super Kings

@ChennaiIPL

Left Arm “Taking” Over! 💫🦁 Welcoming Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings! #WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛

Also Read: Zaheer Khan Replaces Controversial Manjot Kalra As Jaffna Kings Owner For LPL 2026

Zaheer Khan’s CV And Experience In IPL

Zaheer Khan has already gained valuable experience away from the field. He worked with Mumbai Indians as Director of Cricket from 2018 to 2022 and later joined Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor in August 2024; however, his association with LSG ended in September 2025.

The former ace pacer had also been linked with the Indian team’s coaching staff in 2017. He was first named as the bowling coach after Anil Kumble became head coach. However, following Ravi Shastri’s appointment, Zaheer Khan’s role was changed to bowling consultant.

During his playing days in the IPL, he played for three franchises (RCB, MI and DC). The former left-arm pacer played in 100 matches and bagged 102 wickets at an economy rate of 7.58.

Zaheer Khan's Captaincy Record In IPL

As Zaheer will now lead CSK from the front, it is worth noting that he was also part of the leadership group in the IPL when he played for Delhi Capitals during 2016-2017.