In a major change, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will part ways with their mentor Zaheer Khan before the IPL 2026 season. The former Indian fast bowler joined LSG ahead of the 2025 season. But after a poor campaign, the franchise and Zaheer are ready to go in different directions.
Zaheer replaced Gautam Gambhir as LSG mentor after Gambhir moved to Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024. He also took up the role of bowling coach after Morne Morkel joined Gambhir in the Indian cricket coaching setup.
A source told TOI, “LSG is set to part ways with Zaheer Khan, and a new mentor will be given a bigger role to monitor RPSG Group’s other franchises.” The RPSG Group also owns Durban’s Super Giants in South Africa’s SA20 league and Manchester Originals in The Hundred.
It is also expected that LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka will bring in a new Director of Cricket. This person will manage the overall development of players and teams across all RPSG Group franchises.
LSG Poor IPL 2025 Performance Under Zaheer Khan and Rishabh Pant
LSG had high hopes for IPL 2025. They built a fresh squad and even signed Rishabh Pant, the costliest player in IPL history. But things went wrong as the bowling unit failed to perform.
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Injuries to key pacers hurt the team badly. The inability to develop a strong backup attack was another reason for Zaheer’s exit. LSG ended the season in seventh place with just six wins from 14 matches.
LSG have already moved to strengthen their staff. They have hired Bharat Arun, the former India and Kolkata Knight Riders bowling coach. Arun has been praised for his work in developing young bowlers and achieving great results.
At KKR, Arun played a big role in building a strong bowling attack. LSG now hope he can repeat that success. Arun will also be given the responsibility of scouting young talent and preparing them for the future.
With these changes, LSG will aim for a fresh start and a stronger performance in IPL 2026.
