In a recent turn of events, former India cricketer Zaheer Khan has been reportedly approached by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). According to a media report, he has been offered a dual role within their coaching staff.
LSG is the one team that debuted alongside Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 2022 IPL season. They have made it to the playoffs twice out of their three seasons in the IPL. Ahead of their 2024 IPL campaign, their mentor Gautam Gambhir left the franchise and returned to his old team Kolkata Knight Riders, for the same role. He was later appointed as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team, succeeding Rahul Dravid. In addition, their bowling coach and former South Africa fast bowler Morne Morkel also departed after the 2024 season to join Gambhir’s support staff with team India.
According to a Cricbuzz report, LSG is considering bringing in Zaheer to fill both the mentor and bowling coach roles for the 2025 IPL season. The former India pacer would also serve as a key liaison between the players and the LSG management. If he will be appointed, he will be working alongside head coach Justin Langer, and the coaching staff including Adam Voges, Lance Klusener, and Jonty Rhodes. There’s also speculation about another prominent figure joining in the coaching setup of the Lucknow-based franchise, though the details are not clear.
“He (Zaheer Khan) will also be a key interlocutor, rather a go-between, for players and the management of the franchise, the owner of which is known to be very passionate about the game,” the report read.
Earlier, reports suggested Zaheer was considered a strong candidate for the role of bowling coach of team India under Gautam Gambhir. He might be appointed to mentor young pace bowlers. It is worth noting that he was known for his guidance and mentorship of rising fast bowlers within the Indian team during his playing career.
Notably, his potential role did not materialize as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opted for Morkel. Notably, the 45-year-old has substantial coaching experience in the IPL, having worked with the five-time champions Mumbai Indians.
Zaheer stands out as one of the leading fast bowlers of his generation. He boasts an impressive cricketing career, having played 92 Tests, 200 ODIs, and 17 T20Is. In the IPl, he has featured in 100 matches, having represented the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Royal Challengers Bangalore (now Royal Challengers Bengaluru), and Mumbai Indians.
