Zaheer Khan Named CSK Head Coach as Chennai Super Kings Overhaul Backroom for IPL 2027

Chennai Super Kings have gone outside their coaching family for the first time in almost two decades. Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan is the new head coach for IPL 2027, replacing Stephen Fleming, and a sweeping backroom reshuffle is already underway at the five-time champions.

Zaheer Khan Takes Charge at CSK

Zaheer takes over from Stephen Fleming, whose association with the franchise stretched back to 2008. Fleming first served as a player and then spent 17 seasons in the dugout.

Fleming stepped down in July 2026 after CSK finished eighth with six wins from 14 matches. He has since been named head coach of England’s men’s Test side.

This is Zaheer’s first head-coaching role at any level. He has worked as a mentor and bowling coach, most recently with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, but has never led a full setup.

A Remit Limited to the IPL

CSK managing director Kasi Viswanathan said the appointment was discussed and agreed by the franchise’s leadership group. He confirmed that Zaheer’s remit covers the IPL only.

The Super Kings’ ownership also runs teams in SA20 and Major League Cricket, both of which Fleming had coached. That makes the scope of Zaheer’s role a notable detail.

Why CSK Pulled the Trigger

The scale of the change follows three poor seasons. For a franchise with five IPL titles, the recent results have been well below the standard fans expect.

The shift at the top has triggered one of the most extensive backroom overhauls in IPL history. MS Dhoni is reported to be closely involved in shaping the new structure.

Full CSK Coaching and Support Staff Status for IPL 2027

Several roles have already changed hands, while others are still being settled. Here is where things stand.

Mohit Sharma Steps In With the Ball

The bowling department looks settled. Eric Simons, who had been with the franchise as bowling coach and consultant for the better part of a decade, has left.

Former CSK seamer Mohit Sharma has replaced him. It is a familiar face stepping into a key role.

The Batting Coach Question

CSK have parted ways with batting coach Michael Hussey, leaving the role vacant. According to the Times of India, Englishman Gareth Batty is likely to be appointed as his successor.

The report adds that Batty was shortlisted on Zaheer’s recommendation, as the pair shared a rapport from their playing days at Worcestershire. Viswanathan told the paper:

“We are in discussions with him. The negotiations are underway, and an announcement is likely in a couple of days.”

Fielding and Support Roles Still Open

James Foster’s position as fielding coach remains unresolved after just one season in the job. The futures of Sridharan Sriram and Rajiv Kumar have not been confirmed either way.

Until those calls are made, the picture of the final support staff remains incomplete.

What It Means for CSK Fans

Bringing in an outsider marks a clear break from tradition. Fleming was the constant behind CSK’s identity for nearly two decades, so the contrast is stark.

Zaheer arrives with a strong bowling pedigree and no head-coaching track record. The challenge is to turn a side that has slipped down the table back into title contention.

With Dhoni reportedly involved in the rebuild, the blend of fresh voices and familiar influence will be fascinating to watch. The next few days, with the batting coach announcement expected, should bring more clarity.

The Road to IPL 2027

Some roles are filled, some are pending and a few remain uncertain. One thing is clear: Chennai Super Kings are not standing still after three underwhelming seasons.

All eyes will be on how Zaheer shapes the squad and the staff around him as the build-up to IPL 2027 gathers pace.