Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the head coach of Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2027, taking over from Stephen Fleming who stepped down in July 2026 after the franchise finished eighth with six wins and eight losses. The announcement was made on Monday, September 21, 2026, marking a significant change in CSK’s leadership structure after Fleming’s long tenure with the franchise.
Khan acknowledged the settled nature of CSK as an organisation and highlighted the critical role that MS Dhoni and the team management will play in his new position. The former India fast bowler recognised that CSK operates with established systems and processes built over many years of success.
“It is a settled franchise; it’s been years since a lot of processes are already in place. So, MS’ (Dhoni) guidance, I think, is going to be very crucial. You look at the team management’s vision; that is something that is going to be equally important. It’s a new setup, so there are going to be some learnings,” Khan said on CSK’s YouTube channel.
Zaheer Khan on MS Dhoni’s guidance and CSK’s established structure
Fleming’s departure came after CSK failed to reach the playoffs, continuing a difficult period for the franchise. The team has not made the playoffs since winning the IPL title three years ago in what was MS Dhoni’s final season as full-time captain. During Fleming’s tenure as head coach from 2009 onwards, CSK won five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies, made the playoffs 12 times and reached 10 IPL finals, establishing the franchise as one of the most successful in the tournament’s history.
Understanding T20 evolution and staying ahead of the curve
Khan emphasised the importance of understanding the evolving nature of T20 cricket and the need for CSK to maintain its competitive edge. The new head coach drew on his experience as one of India’s most successful fast bowlers to articulate his vision for the franchise moving forward.
“It is about understanding the pressures and the new dynamics of T20. I think the game is evolving, and it is about staying ahead of the curve. When I look back at what CSK have achieved over the years, it is predominantly by staying ahead of the curve, understanding and adapting to different situations. It’s building on that, it’s about evolving with changing times and creating that faith within the whole group to take things forward,” Khan said.
CSK’s management and leadership group expressed confidence that Khan would be beneficial to the development of the team’s bowlers, drawing on his extensive experience as one of India’s most successful fast bowlers. The franchise looked to Khan to help restore CSK to playoff contention in the upcoming IPL season.
