LSG are intent on giving Zaheer a bigger profile, engaging him in the scouting and player-development programs during the off season. Zaheer Khan is in negotiations with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) about a mentorship role. With the club looking for a top former India player. Who is familiar with T20 cricket to have a big presence in their coaching setup following Gautam Gambhir’s exit.
Two other franchises are said to be interested in hiring Zaheer. Who was previously head of global development at the Mumbai Indians (MI) and director of cricket from 2018 to 2022.
LSG has been without a mentor since Gambhir left late last year. Gambhir, who was a member of the support group that helped Kolkata Knight Riders win their third IPL title in 2024, has since taken over as India’s head coach. Morne Morkel, a former South African pacer and LSG bowling coach, has joined Gambhir’s India men’s side in the same capacity.
Aside from the mentorship role, LSG is also interested in raising Zaheer’s profile. Which will entail engagement in scouting and player-development programs during the offseason. LSG’s backroom is now overseen by Justin Langer. Who replaced Andy Flower as head coach ahead of the IPL 2024 season, with Lance Klusener and Adam Voges serving as coaches. After making the playoffs in its first two seasons. The KL Rahul-led team was pipped on net run rate for a spot in the top four in 2024.
Zaheer Khan
Zaheer’s likely return to the IPL comes as teams prepare for a big auction. The IPL is expected to release the retention guidelines in early September.
Throughout his playing career, Zaheer represented three franchises: MI, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils. In total, he appeared in 100 games for three clubs over ten seasons, taking 102 wickets at an economy rate of 7.59. He last competed in the competition in 2017, leading the Daredevils, before withdrawing from all forms of cricket.
Meanwhile, the Punjab Kings are on the lookout for an Indian head coach to replace Trevor Bayliss. They were apparently interested in hiring VVS Laxman. But that is no longer an option because Laxman has extended his time as head of the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy. They presently have Sanjay Bangar as their head of cricket development.
