Former Indian cricketer and analyst Wasim Jaffer has opened up about former left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan being appointed as the new Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach for the forthcoming IPL 2027 season.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Jaffer expressed his happiness over an Indian being supported as the head coach, terming it a good decision. However, he was surprised to see the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) removing the former pacer from the team mentor role.
“It is a good decision. I am always happy when an Indian becomes the coach. Zaheer did well with LSG, actually. I was surprised they let him go. I feel he has got a very wise head on his shoulders and he is very sensible. He understands personalities and is very composed. It does not surprise me. It was about time people made use of him as a bowling coach at some point, but also as a franchise head coach. I am very happy with this decision,” Jaffer said on his YouTube channel.
It’s important to note that Zaheer worked in different roles for Mumbai Indians (MI) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). While he was the Director of Cricket and Global Head at MI from 2018 to 2022, he was later roped in by LSG as team mentor from 2024 to 2025.
“It’s an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. As a cricketer, I have faced CSK on the field and have thoroughly enjoyed the contests. The atmosphere created by the Superfans at Chepauk makes it even more special. I can’t wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history,” Zaheer Khan said on his appointment.
Zaheer replaces Stephen Fleming, who ended his 18-year association with the Chennai-based outfit. In July 2026, Fleming was named England men’s Test head coach.
