Former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan is reportedly in discussions with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to take on the role of the franchise’s new mentor, according to ESPNcricinfo. The Lucknow-based team is interested in adding Khan to their coaching staff, with two other IPL franchises also expressing interest in the 45-year-old cricketer.
Zaheer Khan previously served as the head of global development at Mumbai Indians (MI) and was the director of cricket for the franchise from 2018 to 2022. Following Gautam Gambhir’s departure from the mentor role at LSG, the position has remained vacant. Gambhir had joined Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a mentor for IPL 2024 and guided them to their third IPL title.
There were earlier speculations about Zaheer Khan becoming India’s new bowling coach, but the position eventually went to former South African pacer Morne Morkel, who joined Gambhir’s coaching staff.
According to ESPNcricinfo, LSG is considering giving Zaheer Khan a broader role, which would include involvement in scouting and player development programs during the off-season. Justin Langer is currently the head coach of LSG, having taken over from Andy Flower ahead of IPL 2024. The team did not advance to the playoffs in the previous T20 season.
Zaheer Khan, known for his impressive career, has taken 311 Test wickets in 92 matches and 610 wickets in 309 international matches across all formats. He is regarded as one of the finest left-arm pacers in cricket history. In the IPL, Zaheer played 100 matches for Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils, claiming 102 wickets at an economy rate of 7.59.