India cricket legend Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the new head coach of Chennai Super Kings on a one-year contract. The former India pacer takes over from Stephen Fleming, who left the franchise after the 2026 season.
The appointment gives Zaheer his first head-coaching role in the Indian Premier League. CSK finished ninth in IPL 2026 and missed the playoffs for the third straight season. The franchise will now look to Zaheer to help rebuild the team and bring back its competitive edge.
Zaheer’s appointment reportedly came after MS Dhoni recommended him for the role. The CSK management also considered his experience in franchise cricket before finalising the decision.
Before joining CSK, Zaheer worked with Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor and bowling coach in 2025. He also spent four years with Mumbai Indians as Director of Cricket and Head of Global Development.
“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.
Zaheer Khan’s Illustrious Cricket Career
Zaheer enjoyed a long and successful international career with India. He played 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is. He finished with 610 international wickets across formats.
In the IPL, Zaheer played 100 matches and took 102 wickets. He also maintained an economy rate of around 7.6.
His career featured several major moments. He was part of India’s 2002 NatWest Trophy-winning team. He also played in the 2003 World Cup, where India reached the final.
His biggest achievement came in 2011. Zaheer was part of India’s World Cup-winning team at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
He finished the 2011 ODI World Cup with 21 wickets in nine matches. He was the joint-highest wicket-taker in the tournament.
Now, Zaheer will begin a new chapter with CSK. His experience as a player, mentor and franchise cricket administrator will be key as the team looks to return to the playoffs.
