Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Monday appointed former India pace spearhead Zaheer Khan as their new head coach ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 season, ending weeks of speculation after Stephen Fleming’s departure.
Fleming’s 18-year association with CSK – first as a player in 2008, then as head coach from 2009 – is one of the longest and most successful coaching tenures in IPL history. Under him, CSK established one of the most dominant dynasties in franchise cricket, securing five IPL titles (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023), two Champions League T20 trophies, and 10 final appearances. The side finished last in IPL 2025 and eighth in IPL 2026 with six wins from 14 matches. Fleming stepped down in July 2026 and has since taken over as England’s Test head coach. A central figure in India’s 2011 ODI World Cup triumph, Zaheer transitioned smoothly into executive and coaching capacities post-retirement. As a player, Zaheer featured in 100 IPL matches, taking 102 wickets at 27.27, adding to his illustrious India career, where he picked 610 wickets across formats.
That run ended after CSK missed the playoffs for a third straight season. Zaheer’s arrival marks the first time CSK has opted for an Indian head coach. The decision followed detailed deliberations involving team management and franchise icon MS Dhoni, who pushed for leadership well-versed in domestic circuits and player development. Zaheer brings vast administrative and mentorship pedigree to the Chennai camp.
