IPL: CSK appoint Zaheer Khan as head coach, replacing Stephen Fleming

Ending weeks of speculation, Chennai Super Kings on Monday, September 21, confirmed the appointment of Zaheer Khan as their head coach. The former India fast bowler will replace Stephen Fleming, who left the role after 17 years at the helm in July.

"Left Arm 'Taking' Over! Welcoming Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach of Chennai Super Kings!" the franchise said in a post on X.

Zaheer will reunite with his former captain, MS Dhoni, who is expected to remain associated with the franchise despite continued uncertainty over his future as a player. His arrival comes at an interesting juncture for CSK,



with Zaheer having a year to assess and reshape the squad before the 2028 mega auction potentially gives the franchise the chance to overhaul its team.

Several names, including former India head coach Rahul Dravid and former England captain Eoin Morgan, had been doing the rounds for the CSK job, one of the most high-profile vacancies in Indian cricket. Last week, media reports claimed that Michael Hussey, who has been serving as the team's batting coach, would take over as head coach. Zaheer's appointment, however, came as a surprise, with his name largely staying under the radar amid the speculation.