Zaheer Khan is currently in discussions with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) regarding a potential role as the team’s mentor. If the negotiations are successful, Zaheer could step in to replace two key figures who have recently exited the northern Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise.
The Super Giants have been without a mentor since Gautam Gambhir departed for Kolkata in 2023. Additionally, Morne Morkel, who served as the bowling coach for three seasons, has also left the franchise, with both Gambhir and Morkel reportedly moving closer to roles within the Indian national team.
Zaheer, who was previously considered for a bowling coach role under Gambhir’s potential setup in the Indian national team, is highly regarded for his ability to mentor young fast bowlers. Even during his playing days, Zaheer was known for his leadership and mentoring skills within the Indian cricket team.
While Zaheer Khan was passed over for the Indian team role in favor of Morkel, reportedly based on Gambhir’s recommendation, he brings a wealth of IPL coaching experience to the table, having previously worked with Mumbai Indians. If he joins LSG, Zaheer will collaborate with head coach Justin Langer and an accomplished coaching staff that includes Adam Voges, Lance Klusener, and Jonty Rhodes. There are also rumors of another high-profile coach joining the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise, though details remain unclear.
Zaheer Khan, now 45, has an impressive cricketing resume, having played 92 Tests, 200 ODIs, and 17 T20Is for India, along with 100 IPL matches. His IPL career saw him represent Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Mumbai Indians, with his last appearance in 2017.
Meanwhile, speculation is growing that the BCCI will soon announce the IPL retention rules, with teams likely allowed up to six retentions, including the Right to Match (RTM) option. Despite some franchises advocating for the elimination of the Big Auction, the BCCI is expected to retain it for now.
KL Rahul likely to exit LSG Before IPL 2025: Report
KL Rahul may be on the verge of leaving the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, signaling potential significant roster changes. According to a report by Dainik Jagran, tensions between Rahul and the franchise have been brewing, especially after a video of an intense conversation between Rahul and franchise owner Sanjeev Goenka went viral. Although both parties have denied any issues, the relationship dynamics appear to have shifted.
The report also hints at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) potentially being interested in bringing Rahul back to their camp. However, it’s uncertain whether LSG will retain their skipper before the upcoming mega auction.
