Zaheer Khan Appointed CSK Head Coach Ahead of IPL 2027
Zaheer Khan becomes CSK head coach for IPL 2027, replacing Stephen Fleming as Chennai look to rebuild and strengthen their bowling attack.
Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the new head coach of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the IPL 2027 season. The franchise announced the appointment on Monday, September 21, 2026, through social media.
CSK welcomed their new coach with the caption, “Left Arm ‘Taking’ Over! Welcoming Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings”. His appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for the five-time IPL champions.
Zaheer replaces Stephen Fleming, who had been at the helm since 2009. Fleming’s 18-year association with CSK came to an end after he guided the franchise to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies.
According to reports by The Indian Express, Zaheer has signed a one-year contract, which could be extended in the future. CSK managing director K.S. Viswanathan said Zaheer accepted the role without going through an interview process.
Zaheer’s responsibilities will be limited to the IPL franchise and will not extend to CSK’s sister teams in SA20 or Major League Cricket (MLC). He will also have complete freedom to select his own support staff.
The decision to bring in an Indian coach was taken by the management, which includes MS Dhoni and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. The franchise hopes Zaheer’s tactical knowledge and experience will help develop young players and strengthen the bowling attack.
CSK have struggled in recent seasons, missing the playoffs for three consecutive years. The management will look to Zaheer to help the team rebuild and improve its performances ahead of the 2027 campaign.
Zaheer Khan’s Coaching Experience
This will be Zaheer’s first official role as an IPL head coach. However, he has already worked in coaching and team management roles, bringing experience from some of the league’s established franchises.
He served as Director of Cricket Operations and Global Head of Development at Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022. He later joined Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor for the IPL 2025 season.
Zaheer will now take charge of CSK as the franchise looks to move forward under a new coaching setup after the end of Fleming’s long tenure.
