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The TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has come to an end with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) winning their second consecutive trophy. Ahead of the 2027 season, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who sacked their head coach Stephen Fleming after 19 years, have announced their new head coach: former India National Cricket Team pacer Zaheer Khan will take up the role.
Chennai Super Kings did not have the best of a season in recent times; after repeated failures, they sacked their head coach Fleming after the conclusion of the last season. The Men in Yellow will look to do something different in the upcoming season, with Zaheer being appointed as the new head coach and Ruturaj Gaikwad remaining the captain.
Zaheer Khan appointed as the new head coach
On Monday evening, Zaheer Khan was confirmed as the head coach of the Men in Yellow from the 2027 season. He brings a wealth of experience from working with different IPL teams over the years. The 2011 World Cup winner has played under MS Dhoni’s captaincy, and his appointment might have some influence from the former India captain.
Left Arm “Taking” Over! 💫🦁
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) September 21, 2026
Welcoming Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings!#WhistlePodu #Yellove 🦁💛
Previously, he was the mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL, a role he held from August 2024 until September 2025. This year, he was not involved with any franchise, as he was working with the young pacers at the CoE for the fast-bowling development programs for the BCCI. He conducted a specialized three-day red-ball fast-bowling camp in Bengaluru in March 2026.
"It's an honour": Zaheer Khan after joining CSK
After joining the five-time champions, Zaheer Khan stated that he is feeling honoured to join one of the most successful franchises in the IPL. He also recalled his playing time against CSK, and he always enjoyed the contest. Zak also spoke about the surreal atmosphere that the fans create at Chepauk, which is the best, as he is excited to work with the team.
Speaking on his appointment, 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."
"Proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition": Rupa Gurunath on Zaheer Khan's appointment as head coach
The owner Rupa Gurunath and CEO Kasi Vishwanathan is happy after the appointment of Zaheer as the new coach. Rupa said that Zak's ability to nurture the young cricketers has been brilliant and that is what makes him special.
Rupa Gurunath, owner of the team, welcomed Zaheer into the team (as quoted by Cricbuzz), "We are pleased to confirm Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach for Chennai Super Kings. Zaheer's distinguished playing career and proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition to our setup. We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise."
CSK Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan added (as quoted by Cricbuzz), "Zaheer is a world class bowler and has been a mentor to many young cricketers, especially fast bowlers, over the years. As a player, Zaheer was one of the key reasons for India's success in the 2000s. He's one of the finest cricketing brains and we look forward to having him in our family."
