New Delhi, September 21, 2026: Chennai Super Kings have announced former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan as the franchise’s new head coach ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League season. The appointment marks a major change in CSK’s coaching setup after the franchise ended its long association with former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming, who had been in charge since 2009.
Zaheer Khan Takes Charge at CSK
Zaheer Khan brings extensive experience from both international cricket and the IPL. During his playing career, he represented India in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is. He was also an important member of India’s 2011 World Cup-winning squad and finished that tournament as the team’s leading wicket-taker with 21 wickets.
After retiring from international cricket, Zaheer moved into coaching and cricket-management roles. He has previously worked with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, giving him experience in player development, tactical planning and franchise-level cricket. He also served as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants during the 2024 season.
Stephen Fleming Era Comes to an End
Zaheer's appointment follows the departure of Stephen Fleming, whose association with Chennai Super Kings stretched across 18 years. Fleming initially joined the franchise as a player in 2008 before taking over as head coach in 2009.
Under his leadership, CSK won five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies. The franchise also established itself as one of the league's most consistent teams, regularly reaching the playoffs and IPL finals.
However, CSK failed to reach the playoffs for three consecutive seasons after their 2023 title-winning campaign. Fleming and the franchise subsequently mutually agreed to end their long-standing association in July 2026.
A New Direction for Chennai Super Kings
Zaheer's appointment gives CSK an Indian coach with experience in both playing and franchise-management environments. His understanding of fast bowling, player preparation and modern T20 cricket will form an important part of his new role.
The franchise is now preparing for IPL 2027, with the coaching transition coming at a significant stage of its squad-building process. Reports indicate that Zaheer will also have a role in shaping the team's support structure and preparations for the upcoming season.
The change also comes as CSK evaluates its squad and plans for the upcoming mini-auction. With the franchise looking to rebuild after recent seasons outside the playoffs, the new coaching setup will be closely followed by fans and the wider cricket community.
Zaheer and Dhoni Reunion Draws Attention
Zaheer Khan's arrival also brings him back into the same CSK setup as MS Dhoni, who remains associated with the franchise as a player. Zaheer has previously worked in environments involving several prominent Indian players, while his new position will place him at the centre of CSK's strategic planning.
For Zaheer, the move represents his first appointment as CSK's head coach and a significant new chapter in his post-playing career. For Chennai Super Kings, it marks the beginning of a new coaching era after nearly two decades under Fleming.
With IPL 2027 approaching, attention will now turn towards CSK's squad decisions, support staff and the tactical approach Zaheer Khan brings to one of the league's most established franchises.
