CSK · 26 Oct 2026
CSK Coaching Staff for IPL 2027: Zaheer Khan Leads Major Overhaul
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are preparing for the IPL 2027 season with a significantly reshaped coaching setup after ending
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are preparing for the IPL 2027 season with a significantly reshaped coaching setup after ending their long association with head coach Stephen Fleming. Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan has been appointed head coach, while former CSK pacer Mohit Sharma is set to lead the bowling department.
The changes follow three consecutive seasons in which CSK failed to reach the playoffs. The five-time champions are now looking to refresh their coaching structure and establish a new direction ahead of the next IPL campaign.
Zaheer Khan Replaces Stephen Fleming as Head Coach
Zaheer Khan has taken over as CSK head coach for IPL 2027, bringing an end to Fleming’s 18-year association with the franchise.
Fleming joined CSK as a player in the inaugural IPL season in 2008 before becoming head coach in 2009. Under his leadership, the franchise established itself as one of the competition’s most successful teams, winning five IPL titles.
Zaheer brings extensive experience as an international cricketer and has previously worked in coaching and mentoring roles. He served as a mentor for Lucknow Super Giants during IPL 2025, following earlier positions with Mumbai Indians.
The CSK appointment represents his first head-coaching role. His immediate challenge will be to rebuild the team’s consistency and help the franchise return to playoff contention.
Also Read: IPL 2027: These Players Could Earn More Than Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma
Mohit Sharma Set to Become Bowling Coach
Former India fast bowler Mohit Sharma is joining CSK’s coaching staff as bowling coach for IPL 2027, replacing Eric Simons.
Mohit previously represented CSK as a player and understands the franchise’s environment. His return in a coaching capacity gives Zaheer an experienced former IPL bowler to work with the team’s pace attack.
Mohit has also represented India in international cricket and played for several IPL franchises. His experience across different teams and playing conditions could help CSK prepare their bowlers for the demands of the tournament.
The bowling department is an important part of the new coaching structure as CSK look to improve their performances after missing the playoffs in each of the last three seasons.
Gareth Batty Linked With Batting Coach Role
CSK are also working to fill the batting-coach position following their separation from Michael Hussey, who had been associated with the franchise for many years as both a player and coach.
According to a Times of India report published on October 26, former England off-spinner Gareth Batty is in discussions with CSK over a possible batting-coach appointment. The report indicates that negotiations are underway, but the appointment had not been officially confirmed at the time of publication.
Batty’s potential arrival would add another new face to the coaching team. Until CSK makes an official announcement, however, his status should be treated as a reported possibility rather than a confirmed appointment.
The franchise’s remaining support-staff roles also require clarity, including the future of fielding coach James Foster and the status of other existing coaching personnel.
CSK Coaching Staff for IPL 2027: Latest Update
The reported coaching structure is as follows:
- Head coach: Zaheer Khan — confirmed
- Bowling coach: Mohit Sharma — reported appointment
- Batting coach: Gareth Batty — reportedly in discussions; not confirmed
- Fielding coach: James Foster’s position remains unresolved in available reports
- Other support staff: Further roles and appointments require confirmation
CSK’s coaching arrangements may continue to evolve as the franchise completes its preparations for IPL 2027.
Why CSK Are Reshaping Their Coaching Team
CSK finished fifth in IPL 2024, tenth in 2025 and eighth in 2026, missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. That run prompted changes to the leadership structure, including Fleming’s departure.
The arrival of Zaheer and the expected addition of Mohit represent a shift towards a new coaching approach. The franchise will need to address team balance, bowling consistency, batting performance and the development of younger players.
MS Dhoni’s experience and continuing association with CSK may also remain relevant as the team prepares for the next season, although individual responsibilities should be confirmed through official announcements.
What to Expect From CSK Ahead of IPL 2027
CSK’s immediate focus will be on completing the support staff, assessing player availability and planning for the IPL 2027 squad. The batting-coach appointment is one of the key outstanding developments, while the new head coach will need time to establish his methods and working relationships with the players.
Zaheer’s appointment signals a new chapter for the franchise after nearly two decades under Fleming. Whether the revised setup can help CSK return to the playoffs will depend on the coaching team’s plans, squad composition and performances during the tournament.
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