a major topic of discussion MS Dhoni had alleged involvement in Zaheer’s appointment. Managing Director of CSK kasi vishwanathan have now confirmed that Dhoni was indeed part of the decision-making process, ending the ongoing speculation around the coaching change.
Was MS Dhoni involved in Zaheer Khan’s appointment as CSK head coach?
kasi vishwanathan According to PTI, the decision was taken by CSK’s cricket management, with Dhoni involved in the discussions.
Vishwanathan explained that the management chose Zaheer because of his extensive cricket and IPL experience. He also confirmed that Dhoni was involved while taking the final decision.
Dhoni suggested the name of Zaheer, in which the owner Roopa Guru Nath and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad agreed that the former Indian fast bowler is suitable for the role.
“Look, basically, the cricket management took this decision. They chose Mr. Zaheer Khan as the head coach on the basis of experience. He has played more than 100 matches in the IPL and has been an all-round player.
“So, he liked that he would be a good option for them and we went by the wishes of the cricket management. Of course, he (MS Dhoni) was involved in this decision when it was taken. Without his advice, we would not have done anything,” Viswanathan told IANS.
This clarity is important as Dhoni has remained an influential figure in the CSK setup even after handing over the captaincy to Ruturaj.
Why did CSK choose Zaheer?
Zaheer brings ample experience of playing in this position and of IPL.
The former left-arm fast bowler played 100 IPL matches and took 102 wickets in his career. He represented Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Mumbai Indians (MI) and Delhi Capitals (DC) in the competition.
After retiring from international cricket, Zaheer took up coaching and mentoring roles. He worked as director of cricket operations with Mumbai Indians and later joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as a mentor.
This background provided him with experience in player development, recruiting and franchise operations.
The CSK management also highlighted Zaheer’s work with young cricketers, especially fast bowlers, as one of the reasons for bringing him into the setup.
Zaheer’s appointment ended an 18-year association between Fleming and CSK.
Fleming has been the head of CSK since 2009 and has been a part of CSK’s five IPL title-winning campaigns. His departure followed a difficult period for the franchise, missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
CSK then began searching for a replacement, with several names linked to the vacancy before the franchise officially confirmed Zaheer.
The appointment also represents a change in coaching direction, with CSK moving from a highly experienced foreign head coach to an Indian coach with substantial IPL and international experience.
Zaheer has full control over CSK’s support staff.
Another important detail around Zaheer’s appointment is that he will have authority over his coaching team.
Kasi Vishwanathan confirmed that Zaheer will decide who will be the support staff working with him. In the current setup of CSK Mike Hussey, Sridharan Sriram, Rajeev Kumar, Eric Simmons And james foster Are included.
This provides Zaheer with an opportunity to create a coaching structure according to his methods and preferences ahead of the 2027 season.
His immediate responsibilities will include working with the franchise on squad planning, player protection and recruitment ahead of the upcoming auction cycle.
Zaheer’s first head coaching assignment
Although Zaheer has extensive experience as a player, mentor and cricket administrator, CSK will be the first head coaching role for him.
His challenge will be important. The franchise will enter IPL 2027 looking to rebuild momentum after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons.
Zaheer will now have the opportunity to shape the team’s cricketing direction, while Dhoni’s involvement in his appointment provides an important link between CSK’s established leadership structure and its new coaching era.
For the yellow brigade, the partnership between Zaheer, Ruturaj and the experienced CSK management group will be a major storyline in IPL 2027.
