Archive · 22 Sep 2026
Zaheer Khan Named CSK Head Coach on Dhoni’s Recommendation
Chennai Super Kings, or CSK, have chosen Zaheer Khan as their new cricket coach for IPL 2027.
He replaces Stephen Fleming, who worked with the team for many years.
Different reports describe Fleming’s time as either 18 seasons or 16 years because CSK missed two seasons through suspension.
CSK wanted an Indian coach who would focus on the IPL.
MS Dhoni recommended Zaheer because they had worked together before for India.
Zaheer has also worked with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants.
He is known for his bowling career and for helping young cricketers.
His first jobs will include selecting support staff and deciding which players CSK should keep.
The team has missed the playoffs for three straight seasons and hopes Zaheer can help it improve.
Chennai Super Kings appointed former India pacer Zaheer Khan as head coach for IPL 2027.
Zaheer replaces Stephen Fleming, whose association with CSK lasted 18 seasons, or 16 years excluding two suspended seasons.
MS Dhoni recommended Zaheer, while CSK’s management wanted an Indian coach focused solely on the IPL.
Zaheer previously held senior cricket roles with Mumbai Indians and mentored Lucknow Super Giants.
His immediate responsibilities include choosing support staff and finalizing player retentions before the December mini-auction.
- Who
- Chennai Super Kings appointed former India pacer Zaheer Khan, replacing Stephen Fleming.
- What
- Zaheer Khan was named CSK’s head coach for IPL 2027 and becomes the franchise’s first Indian head coach.
- When
- The appointment was announced on a Monday ahead of the IPL 2027 season; reports say his initial contract is for one year.
- Where
- The appointment concerns Chennai Super Kings, whose home venue is Chepauk in Chennai.
- Why
- CSK wanted an Indian coach with IPL experience who could develop young players, fit the team’s calm working style and focus solely on the IPL.
Case for the appointment
Challenges facing the appointment
Why Zaheer was chosen
Case for the appointment
CSK management cited Zaheer’s distinguished playing career, IPL experience, calm temperament and ability to nurture young talent. MS Dhoni also recommended him.
Challenges facing the appointment
The appointment gives Zaheer his first head-coaching role at an IPL team, while other candidates, including Hemang Badani and Albie Morkel, had also been considered.
Team recovery
Case for the appointment
Zaheer’s experience with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, along with his focus on young players, could help strengthen CSK’s core.
Challenges facing the appointment
CSK have missed the playoffs for three successive seasons, and the new coach must work with the existing squad before the next mega auction.
Immediate decisions
Case for the appointment
Zaheer will be allowed to choose his support staff, giving him control over the coaching setup.
Challenges facing the appointment
He must quickly finalize player retentions before the December mini-auction, while the franchise is still seeking an overseas coach for a role expected to be related to batting.
- New head coach
- Zaheer Khan
- Replaced
- Stephen Fleming, who was associated with CSK for 18 seasons or 16 years excluding two suspended seasons
- Contract
- One year, with a provision for extension
- International record
- 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is for India
- IPL record
- 100 matches and 102 wickets
- Previous roles
- Director of cricket operations and global head of development at Mumbai Indians; mentor of Lucknow Super Giants
- Immediate tasks
- Select support staff and finalize player retentions before the December mini-auction
Sources
Why CSK management appointed Zaheer Khan as head coach? Key reason revealed
CSK rope in India bowling great Zaheer Khan as new head coach ahead of IPL 2027
How Zaheer Khan came to be CSK's head coach of IPL 2027
Zaheer Khan appointed Chennai Super Kings head coach on Dhoni’s recommendation
Zaheer Khan Appointed As New Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings
