Mumbai, Aug 20: Former Team India pace spearhead Zaheer Khan may be Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)'s mentor in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.
His last assignment with an IPL franchise was Mumbai Indians (MI)'s global head of cricket development. He held that position since September 2022.
After Gautam Gambhir switched on to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2024 IPL season, LSG has not assigned the mentor's responsibility to anyone. Gambhir was LSGs mentor for two seasons.
If LSG lost (present Team India head coach) Gambhir to KKR last season, Morne Morkel too has left LSG as their bowling coach. Former South African pacer Morkel will be resuming charges as India's bowling coach from September 1.
There were also discussions about pace bowling icon Zaheer assuming charges as Indian senior team's bowling coach responsibility. But with Morkel being hired for Team India job, Zaheer will be an asset for LSG, if he is hired, feel many.
The Lucknow franchise has Australian Justin Langer as their Head Coach. He is supported by assistant coaches Adam Voges, Lance Klusener and Jonty Rhodes.
As far as Zaheer is concerned, he was a world-class bowler during his playing days. After retirement, he was also associated with a few IPL franchises as a bowling coach.
As a player, Zaheer proved his mettle at the highest level scalping 311 Test victims in 92 Tests, 282 wickets in 200 ODIs and 17 wickets in as many T20Is.
He was exceptional with his swing, pace, adaptability and variations. He claimed former South African opener and captain Graeme Smith on many occasions.
In 2003 ODI World Cup, in partnership with Ashish Nehra and Javagal Srinath, Zaheer formed India's first potent express-pace attack for India, in which India had a dream-run into the finals. He was for sure a complete pace bowler of his era.
