Chennai Super Kings have appointed former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan as their new head coach for the IPL 2027 season, bringing an end to Stephen Fleming’s long association with the franchise. CSK confirmed the appointment on Monday, September 21.
Zaheer, one of India’s most experienced left-arm pacers, will take charge of the five-time IPL champions as the franchise begins preparations for the 2027 campaign. The appointment marks his first head-coaching role, although he has previously worked in senior cricket-management and mentoring positions with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants.
Zaheer Khan Replaces Stephen Fleming
Zaheer replaces Stephen Fleming, who had been associated with CSK since the franchise’s early years and became head coach in 2009. Fleming guided Chennai to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies during his tenure. His departure brings an end to one of the longest coaching associations in the league.
Fleming’s exit followed CSK’s failure to reach the playoffs for a third consecutive season. He has since taken up the role of England men’s Test head coach.
Zaheer’s Cricket and IPL Experience
Zaheer brings extensive international experience to the CSK setup. He represented India in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is, while playing a key role in India’s 2011 World Cup-winning campaign. He was India’s leading wicket-taker during that tournament with 21 wickets.
After retiring from international cricket, Zaheer moved into team management. He worked with Mumbai Indians in senior cricket-development roles before becoming a mentor with Lucknow Super Giants. His experience working with players, particularly fast bowlers, is expected to form an important part of his new role at CSK.
MS Dhoni’s Role in the Appointment
CSK Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan confirmed that MS Dhoni was part of the cricket management team involved in the decision to appoint Zaheer. Reports also indicate that the franchise valued Zaheer’s experience and his work with young players.
CSK announced the appointment with the playful message “Left Arm ‘Taking’ Over!”, while Zaheer expressed his excitement about joining the franchise and experiencing the atmosphere created by CSK supporters at Chepauk.
With Zaheer now at the helm, CSK will begin building its coaching and playing structure for IPL 2027, including preparations for the upcoming player auction. The appointment signals a new phase for the franchise following the conclusion of the Fleming era.
