Former Indian Pace Legend Zaheer Khan Takes Charge as the New Mentor of Lucknow Super Giants Ahead of IPL 2025
In a significant move, Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the new mentor of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) franchise, replacing Gautam Gambhir. The announcement was made during an official event held at the RPSG headquarters in Kolkata on Wednesday.
“All your anticipation ends here! The King of reverse swing, Indian legend #ZaheerKhan takes charge as the mentor of @LucknowIPL #ZaheerNowSuperGiant,” the RPSG group posted on X, officially unveiling Zaheer as the team’s new mentor.
During the event, RPSG chairman Sajiv Goenka presented Zaheer with the LSG jersey bearing the number 34, the same number the left-arm pacer wore throughout his illustrious international and IPL career.
Zaheer’s Return to the IPL Fold
The 45-year-old’s return to the IPL fold marks his first involvement in the league since his association with five-time champions Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022. Zaheer served as the director of cricket and later the head of global development for the Mumbai-based franchise.
Zaheer takes over the role vacated by Gautam Gambhir, who departed LSG last year to join his former franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, guiding them to the IPL title in 2024. Gambhir is now the head coach of the Indian national team.
Zaheer’s Responsibilities and Coaching Staff
With Morne Morkel’s departure to join Gambhir’s coaching staff, LSG currently do not have a dedicated bowling coach. It is understood that Zaheer will also be involved in scouting and player-development programs during the off-season.
LSG’s coaching staff now includes head coach Justin Langer, who replaced Andy Flower before the previous IPL season, and his deputies Lance Klusener and Adam Voges.
Zaheer’s Illustrious IPL Career
Before his coaching career, Zaheer had a successful playing stint in the IPL, representing three franchises – Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils. Over 10 seasons, he claimed 102 wickets in 100 matches, with an economy rate of 7.58. His final IPL appearance was in 2017 when he captained the Delhi Daredevils.
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