Laser247 Exchange readers can follow a major change at Chennai Super Kings ahead of IPL 2027. The franchise has appointed former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan as its new head coach. He replaces Stephen Fleming, who spent 16 years in the role and guided CSK to five IPL titles.
Zaheer brings a long cricket career and strong experience in the IPL. He played international cricket for 14 years and was part of India’s 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team. The new CSK role will also be his first appointment as an IPL head coach.
Zaheer Gets a New Challenge
CSK managing director Kasi Viswanathan said the franchise discussed Zaheer’s appointment with its senior cricket group. MS Dhoni, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson were among those whose views were considered.
The decision followed discussions between the cricket management and team owners. Zaheer agreed to the role without going through a formal interview process.
Laser247 ID & Online Cricket ID Provider coverage can also follow how the former India bowler begins this new chapter. His contract with CSK is set to run for one year, and he is expected to start work soon.
From Mumbai Indians to CSK
Zaheer has already worked in several IPL coaching and management roles. He joined Mumbai Indians in 2018 as director of cricket operations. He later became the franchise’s global head of development.
He stayed with Mumbai Indians until 2022. Zaheer then joined Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor and remained in that position until September 2025.
His coaching experience includes two title-winning seasons with Mumbai Indians. He worked alongside head coach Mahela Jayawardene when MI won the IPL in 2019 and 2020.
A Strong Record as a Player
Zaheer played 100 IPL matches during his career. He took 102 wickets and appeared in two IPL finals.
Both of those finals came against CSK, in 2010 and 2011. Zaheer’s experience against top IPL teams is one reason CSK believes he can help its bowling group.
Get Laser247 Online ID Instantly readers following the IPL can expect plenty of attention on Zaheer’s plans for the new season. CSK has also given him the freedom to choose his own coaching staff.
The franchise has not yet confirmed whether the other members of the previous coaching team will continue. Eric Simmons and Michael Hussey have been part of the setup for several seasons.
CSK Looking for a Fresh Start
CSK have faced a difficult period in recent IPL seasons. They have not reached the playoffs since winning the title three years ago during MS Dhoni’s final season as full-time captain.
The team finished at the bottom of the table in 2025. CSK then changed its approach and began giving more chances to young players.
Players such as Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis and Kartik Sharma were brought into the squad. However, the results did not improve enough.
Fleming stepped down in July 2026 after CSK finished eighth in the league. The team recorded six wins and eight defeats during that season.
Zaheer Gets Control of His Staff
Laser 247 Login searches may rise as cricket fans follow the latest CSK developments. The biggest question now is how Zaheer will shape the team before the 2027 season.
The franchise has confirmed that his work will focus on the IPL team. CSK also owns teams in the SA20 and Major League Cricket in the United States, but Zaheer will not oversee those sides.
Albie Morkel has already been named coach of Joburg Super Kings. The Texas Super Kings are still waiting for their next head coach.
Laser247 can track the story as Zaheer begins his first head coaching role in the IPL. His playing career, international experience and previous work with Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants give him a strong background in the tournament.
CSK now enters a new period after a long association with Fleming. Zaheer’s first task will be to build a clear coaching structure and help the team improve its bowling and overall performance. The IPL 2027 season will show how this new chapter develops.