Chennai Super Kings have appointed Zaheer Khan as their new head coach, with MS Dhoni’s preference for a familiar figure reportedly influencing the franchise’s decision.
Zaheer takes over from Stephen Fleming, who ended his 18-year association with CSK after helping the franchise win five IPL titles and establish itself among the league’s most successful teams.
CSK confirmed the appointment on Monday with a post on X welcoming Zaheer as the team’s new head coach.
The former India pacer said joining CSK was an honour and recalled facing the franchise during his playing career. He also highlighted the atmosphere created by the team’s supporters at Chepauk.
Dhoni’s Role in Zaheer’s Appointment
Sources close to the CSK management indicated that the franchise’s cricket leadership group wanted an Indian coach after Fleming’s departure. The group includes Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and owner Rupa Gurunath.
Dhoni, who has shared the India dressing room with Zaheer for several years, reportedly wanted someone he already knew and trusted to be part of the coaching setup. That familiarity is understood to have strengthened Zaheer’s case.
The former India fast bowler was one of the key members of Dhoni’s team during India’s successful 2011 World Cup campaign, finishing the tournament as the country’s leading wicket-taker with 21 wickets.
Zaheer’s Experience Beyond Playing
Zaheer brings extensive experience from both international cricket and the IPL. He represented India in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is, while making 100 IPL appearances for Mumbai Indians, Delhi Daredevils and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
After retiring, he moved into coaching and mentoring roles. He served as director of cricket operations and later global head of cricket development at Mumbai Indians before joining Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor for the 2024 season.
CSK management also pointed to Zaheer’s experience working with young players, particularly fast bowlers, as an important part of his appointment.
Fleming’s Long CSK Run Ends
Fleming’s departure brought an end to one of the longest coaching associations in IPL history. He had been CSK’s head coach for 18 seasons and was central to the team’s five championship campaigns.
The former New Zealand captain has since taken up the role of England’s Test head coach.
With Fleming no longer available, CSK considered several potential replacements. Former England captain Eoin Morgan was among the names discussed publicly but was reportedly not a serious option.
Former India player Hemang Badani was also considered. However, his two-year stint with Delhi Capitals reportedly weakened his prospects, despite his coaching experience in competitions such as the ILT20 and The Hundred.
CSK eventually settled on Zaheer, whose international experience, IPL background and existing relationship with Dhoni made him the franchise’s choice to lead the team into its next phase.
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