Lucknow Super Giants are preparing to appoint former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan as their mentor ahead of the upcoming IPL mega auction. This move signals a return to the IPL for the 45-year-old, who previously worked with the Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022. The official announcement is expected to take place at the RPSG Group Headquarters in Kolkata on Wednesday. “Zaheer has been named the team mentor, with the unveiling set for later today,” sources informed PTI.
Zaheer is set to fill the role left by Gautam Gambhir, who moved back to Kolkata Knight Riders last year and led them to an IPL title in 2024. Gambhir is currently the head coach for the Indian national team.
During his time with the Mumbai Indians, Zaheer initially served as the director of cricket operations before transitioning to head of global development.
The Super Giants are currently without a bowling coach following the departure of Morne Morkel, who has joined Gambhir’s coaching staff.
Zaheer is also expected to contribute to the team’s scouting and player development programs during the off-season.
Before transitioning into coaching, Zaheer had an illustrious playing career in the IPL, representing Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils. Over 10 seasons, he played in 100 matches and took 102 wickets, maintaining an economy rate of 7.58.
Zaheer last played in the IPL in 2017, where he captained the Delhi Daredevils before retiring from all forms of cricket.
The Super Giants currently have Justin Langer as their head coach. The Australian, who replaced Andy Flower last season, will continue in this role alongside his assistant coaches Lance Klusener and Adam Voges.
