Zaheer Khan named Chennai Super Kings head coach for IPL 2027
Zaheer Khan was appointed head coach of Chennai Super Kings for the Indian Premier League 2027 season, the franchise announced on September 21, 2026. The former India fast bowler succeeds Stephen Fleming after CSK failed to reach the playoffs in IPL 2026.
Franchises began reshaping squads and support staff following a busy IPL 2026 campaign as teams prepare for the IPL 2027 auction. Chennai Super Kings, five-time IPL champions, missed the 2026 playoffs and have now gone three straight seasons without qualifying for the knockout stage. With the next edition still some time away, franchises are making early decisions on their coaching and planning structures.
CSK has ended its long association with Stephen Fleming. Fleming served as CSK head coach from 2009 to 2026. During his tenure as head coach, Fleming guided CSK to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 titles.
Zaheer Khan brings experience from his playing career and prior IPL roles. He has worked with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants in coaching and support positions. As a player he featured in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is for India and was part of the team that won the 2011 ODI World Cup. In the IPL, Zaheer took 102 wickets in 100 matches.
Zaheer expressed his enthusiasm on joining CSK, saying: “It’s an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. As a cricketer, I have faced CSK on the field and have thoroughly enjoyed the contests. The atmosphere created by the Superfans at Chepauk makes it even more special. I can’t wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history.”
CSK CEO KS Viswanathan welcomed the appointment and commented: “Zaheer is a world-class bowler and has been a mentor to many young cricketers, especially fast bowlers, over the years. As a player, Zaheer was one of the key reasons for India’s success in the 2000s. He’s one of the finest cricketing brains, and we look forward to having him in our family.”
Zaheer will take charge of Chennai Super Kings’ coaching setup for IPL 2027, and the franchise has said it will build its plans around the former India pacer as it prepares for the upcoming season. Zaheer Khan has been named the head coach of Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2027.