How MS Dhoni played a role in Zaheer Khan’s appointment as CSK coach

After months of deliberation, Chennai Super Kings announced on Monday that Zaheer Khan will take over as head coach for 2027, and the decision clearly bears the imprint of former skipper MS Dhoni. | Photo Credit: AP

Chennai Super Kings has been a symbol of stability, and it is often cited as a key reason for its success over the years. So, when the five-time champion parted ways with head coach Stephen Fleming after an 18-year association earlier this year, expectations were high for who would fill the New Zealander’s shoes.

After months of deliberation, the team announced on Monday that Zaheer Khan will take over as head coach for 2027, and the decision clearly bears the imprint of former skipper MS Dhoni.

“We take all our decisions discussing with MS Dhoni, and once he suggested his name, the management spoke to Zaheer and convinced him. Zaheer is also tactically strong, especially at figuring out the opposition’s game plans. Ruturaj Gaikwad and the players are excited to work with him,” said CSK Managing Director Kasi Viswanathan.

The five-time champion hasn’t qualified for the playoffs since its title-winning run in 2023. More importantly, the team had a poor mega auction in 2025 and is bearing the consequences of those mis-steps. Though some of that has been addressed, especially in the batting department, the line-up is still far from settled.

With one more year before the mega auction, the team needs to maximise its resources, and management feels Zaheer can make an impact.

“We needed a coach who can gel well with the players, and Zaheer is the right choice for that. He is technically very strong, and bowling is an area where we felt we needed to improve. He can help our pacers like Khaleel Ahmed and Gurjapneet Singh,” Viswanathan added.

During their playing days together, Dhoni regularly heaped praise on Zaheer and relied on him as the leader of the bowling attack. The former India skipper once even called him the Sachin Tendulkar of bowling.

The two have now come together again, albeit in different capacities, with a huge task ahead: to get the Super Kings back to their glory days, even if it’s a long road.