Former Indian pacer Zaheer Khan was formally announced as the next Chennai Super Kings coach ahead of the IPL 2027. The 47-year-old has been handed a one-year contract with the option to extend. He will replace Stephen Fleming, who parted ways with the franchise in July.

Aakash Chopra, in his latest YouTube video, said the move could work in favour of the five-time winners.

“If someone can understand the pressures of administration, the pressures that players face in the team, and also understand the pressure of playing yourself, then you know the fine line. What I like about Zaheer is that he stands up for his players and he is not someone who will bully them,” said Chopra.

Aakash also added, “He understands the game very well tactically, knows the DNA of the game and other finer aspects, which is why CSK need someone like him. He is good in management, and he knows how to handle people well. He can put his arms around players and also figure out who needs more time and has a good work ethic.”

“He is not someone who likes to come to the forefront and take the limelight, but prefers working in the background quietly and will focus on the process, which is the same thought that even Dhoni shares, so it should work well,” he mentioned.

Former India skipper’s past equation works in Zaheer’s favour

Zaheer gave his best with the ball under MS Dhoni‘s captaincy. The left-arm seamer was impressive during the 2011 ODI World Cup, playing a key role in India’s title win. Hemang Badani was the front-runner to replace Fleming, but things didn’t work out because of the contract duration.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan and owner Rupa Gurunath released statements welcoming Khan. It is believed that Dhoni was part of the process, and even captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was consulted before the decision was finalized.