CSK Appoint Zaheer Khan As Head Coach For IPL 2027, Ending Stephen Fleming’s 18-Year Run

Chennai Super Kings have ushered in a new coaching era by appointing former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan as their head coach for IPL 2027, ending the franchise's long association with Stephen Fleming.

The five-time IPL champions confirmed Zaheer's appointment on Monday, with the former left-arm pacer taking charge after 18 seasons under Fleming, who had been at the helm since 2009. Fleming's tenure saw CSK win five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies, making his departure one of the biggest changes in the franchise's history.

Zaheer arrives with considerable experience in Indian franchise cricket despite not having previously served as an IPL head coach. After retiring from the IPL in 2017, he moved into management and development roles with Mumbai Indians, serving as their Director of Cricket Operations before becoming their head of global development. He later worked with Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor.

His appointment also brings a strong fast-bowling perspective to the CSK setup. Zaheer played 100 IPL matches and took 102 wickets, while his international career for India included 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is. He was India's leading wicket-taker with 21 wickets during the country's historic 2011 ODI World Cup triumph.

Welcoming the move, Zaheer said joining CSK was an honour and highlighted the special atmosphere created by the franchise's supporters at Chepauk. CSK owner Rupa Gurunath said his experience and ability to nurture young talent would strengthen the team's core, while Managing Director KS Viswanathan described him as one of the game's finest cricketing minds.

The change comes after CSK endured difficult campaigns in IPL 2025 and 2026, adding significance to Zaheer's first season in charge. The franchise, which finished last in 2025 and eighth in 2026, will now enter IPL 2027 with a new voice in the coaching room as it looks to rebuild after a tough period