New Delhi, September 25, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Newly appointed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Zaheer Khan described the role as a privilege and said succeeding Stephen Fleming comes with immense responsibility and high expectations.
Zaheer, the former India left-arm fast bowler and member of the 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team, was appointed CSK head coach on Monday ahead of IPL 2027. His immediate priority will be preparing the team’s strategy for the IPL mini-auction scheduled to be held in Goa in December.
Speaking on CSK’s official YouTube channel, Zaheer said the significance of joining the five-time IPL champions was still sinking in.
“It’s a franchise which has the legacy, rich history of cricket and big shoes to fill in. So that’s something which is going to be very challenging — at the same time, exciting as well,” he said.
Zaheer said he was encouraged by the confidence shown in him by the franchise’s management during the appointment process. He said the discussions involving former captain MS Dhoni, the owners and CEO Kasi Viswanathan were straightforward and focused on the direction of the team.
“It would be a privilege and an honour,” Zaheer said, adding that the faith shown in his abilities was something he valued greatly.
The former India pacer also paid tribute to Fleming, under whom CSK won five IPL titles, and highlighted the coach’s long association with Dhoni.
“When you talk about Fleming, it’s about the consistency and the camaraderie which he’s had with MS. It’s something which has been very special,” Zaheer said.
He said CSK had built its identity through years of consistent performances and that his task would be to protect that legacy while taking the team forward.
“It’s about protecting that brand and taking things forward from here. So, as I mentioned, big shoes to fill,” he added.
Zaheer also spoke about his longstanding connection with Chennai. He spent around three years training at the MRF Pace Foundation in the city under Australian fast-bowling great Dennis Lillee during his formative years.
Recalling his time in Chennai, Zaheer said the experience at the Pace Foundation played a major role in shaping his career. He also played league cricket in the city and was associated with the MRF team and the Globe Trotters in the local league.
Zaheer said his familiarity with Chennai and the warmth of CSK supporters had made his return to the city particularly special.
“The team and the fans look like a big family, and the togetherness is very special,” he said, adding that he was looking forward to the journey ahead with the franchise and its supporters.
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