In May 2019, while the Mumbai Indians were locked in a tense battle for their fourth IPL title against the Chennai Super Kings, a young Rasikh Salam sat in the dugout next to Zaheer Khan. Despite being under 18 and having played only a single match that season, Rasikh was encouraged by the former Indian pacer to actively participate in the team’s tactical discussions. These sessions served as an early indicator of the coaching philosophy Zaheer would later refine: an emphasis on reading the game rather than relying solely on raw skill. Their conversations flowing as they had all season while one of the greatest finals in the tournament’s history unfolded in Hyderabad, he sat beside MI’s then Director of Cricket Operations Zaheer Khan. Rasikh, under 18 and still slightly green, was picked on potential and instructed to sit in during matches with the former India pacer. Zaheer drew the youngster into conversations that demanded he think deeper about the game. I would think why was he telling me to read the game. He used to tell me how to go about it and how to use my brain in the game.
Rasikh recalls how Zaheer would meticulously track events, asking him, “If you were there, what would you do?” At the time, the nuances of these conversations were difficult for the teenager to grasp, but he now recognizes those moments as fundamental to his development. Zaheer urged him to understand how to utilize his intellect on the field, a lesson Rasikh views as the mark of an exceptional coach. This proactive mentorship became a hallmark of Zaheer’s approach during his time at Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2024. There were a lot of things we spoke about and at that time, I didn’t grasp a lot of it, but as I’ve grown older, I realise the importance of it,” Rasikh tells. To train my mindset in that way at that time, I think that was the sign of a great coach.
James Pamment, who worked alongside Zaheer as a fielding specialist and assistant coach, notes that the former pacer brought a combination of deep tactical awareness and a laid-back, personable demeanor. During seasons like 2020, when the team performed as a well-oiled machine in Dubai, Zaheer was credited with fostering a cohesive team spirit. Even when navigating the bowling specifics for players like Trent Boult, Zaheer maintained a balance, ensuring he provided technical insights without overstepping the boundaries of the primary bowling coach.
The collaborative environment at Mumbai Indians allowed Zaheer to excel in one-on-one development. He focused on ensuring players like Jayant Yadav, who often had limited opportunities to play, stayed positive and mentally prepared for their specific roles when called upon. Pamment describes Zaheer as someone who avoided negative discourse even during challenging campaigns in 2022 and 2024, preferring to build confidence through steady affirmation rather than aggressive or lengthy team meetings.
As Zaheer transitions to his new role as head coach at the Chennai Super Kings, the stakes are significantly higher. Unlike his background role at Mumbai, all strategic roads in Chennai will now lead to him. He takes over a franchise that is looking to reclaim its former glory after enduring its two worst seasons in recent history, finishing 10th in 2025 and 8th in 2026. This mandate requires him to apply his expertise to a team that needs more than just tactical adjustments; it requires a rebuilding of its internal culture.
The appointment has sparked excitement, partly due to Zaheer’s longstanding professional relationship with MS Dhoni. However, the immediate task ahead involves working closely with current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. The synergy between coach and captain will be central to how the team manages planning, reviews, and player development in the coming season. Pamment highlights that Zaheer’s ability to get everyone on the same page will be his most critical asset.
While his past experience provides a solid foundation, the shift from a supportive role to the prominent position of head coach will be a definitive test of his leadership. The pressure will be on to see if he can replicate his success in an environment that carries the weight of a dimming legacy. How his analytical mind, once shared quietly in the MI dugout, manifests in the high-profile coaching box of Chennai remains one of the most compelling narratives for the upcoming IPL 2027 season.
Ultimately, Zaheer’s challenge lies in whether he can maintain his signature positive influence while shouldering the full burden of decision-making. His reputation as a former international star offers him an inherent advantage in gaining the respect of the squad, yet he must now prove that his quiet, deliberate approach can ignite a resurgence for a team that has long been considered IPL royalty.
