Archive · 24 Sep 2026
Ashwin reveals CSK considered Nehra before appointing Zaheer Khan
Chennai Super Kings needed a new head coach after Stephen Fleming left.
The team looked at several possible replacements.
R Ashwin said Ashish Nehra was one of the coaches considered.
Nehra is currently the head coach of Gujarat Titans.
Ashwin also said some foreign coaches and two other Indian legends were discussed.
CSK eventually chose former India cricketer Zaheer Khan.
Ashwin believes Zaheer understands cricket and bowling very well.
He also thinks Zaheer and Dhoni will work smoothly together.
R Ashwin said Chennai Super Kings considered several candidates to replace Stephen Fleming.
Ashwin claimed Gujarat Titans head coach Ashish Nehra was among the candidates discussed.
He said foreign coaches and two other Indian legends were also considered.
CSK officially welcomed Zaheer Khan as head coach ahead of the 2027 IPL season.
Ashwin praised Zaheer’s cricket knowledge, bowling tactics and relationship with Dhoni.
- Who
- Chennai Super Kings, R Ashwin, Zaheer Khan, Ashish Nehra and Stephen Fleming.
- What
- CSK selected Zaheer Khan as head coach after considering several other candidates.
- When
- The appointment was announced on Monday, ahead of the 2027 IPL season.
- Where
- Within the Chennai Super Kings and Indian Premier League setup.
- Why
- CSK needed to replace Stephen Fleming and prepare for the upcoming season.
- New head coach
- Zaheer Khan
- Previous head coach
- Stephen Fleming
- Other reported candidate
- Ashish Nehra of Gujarat Titans
- Announcement timing
- Monday
- Upcoming season
- IPL 2027
- Additional candidates
- Several foreign coaches and two other Indian legends