Legendary India pacer Zaheer Khan, 47, has been appointed as Chennai Super Kings head coach on a one-year contract following Stephen Fleming’s departure after the 2026 season. This marks the former Indian pacer’s first head-coaching role in the Indian Premier League, bringing his extensive experience from previous coaching positions to the franchise that finished ninth in IPL 2026 and missed the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
His appointment came after MS Dhoni recommended him, with the cricket management agreeing on the fit based on his IPL experience. Before joining CSK, Khan served as mentor and bowling coach for Lucknow Super Giants in 2025. He previously spent four years with Mumbai Indians as Director of Cricket and Head of Global Development, building a strong track record in franchise cricket.
“The game gave me many chapters. Chapters that tested me. Changed me. And gave me moments I’ll carry for the rest of my life. But the game has never really been about looking back. Because every chapter leads you to the next,” said Zaheer in a video released by CSK.
Watch the clip here:
Career milestones and playing statistics
Zaheer’s playing career spanned multiple formats and delivered significant achievements. He took 610 international wickets across 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is, establishing himself as one of India’s greatest fast bowlers. In the IPL, he featured in 100 matches and claimed 102 wickets at an economy rate of approximately 7.6, demonstrating his consistency in the shortest format.
The video showcases three pivotal moments from his career. He won the 2002 NatWest Trophy with India, a breakthrough achievement early in his international journey. The left-hander was part of India’s 2003 World Cup final run, reaching the tournament’s showpiece match. Most significantly, he lifted the 2011 World Cup at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, a crowning moment in his career as India claimed the global title.
Zaheer’s individual performance at the 2011 ODI World Cup underscored his importance in that campaign. He was the joint-highest wicket-taker at the tournament with 21 wickets in nine matches, playing a crucial role in India’s path to the title. These career milestones form the backdrop to his new role at CSK, where he will look to guide the franchise back to competitive form.
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