Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan is set to get the biggest responsibility of his coaching career after parting ways with Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) after just one season last year.
Zaheer Khan joined Lucknow Supergiants as a mentor in August 2024, replacing Gautam Gambhir, who moved to Kolkata Knight Riders and then became the head coach of India. There was reportedly a difference of opinion between Zaheer and the LSG management, which led to his removal.
Zaheer Khan ready for biggest coaching role in BCCI
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to bring in Zaheer Khan to guide and shape the next generation of Indian fast bowlers. The board wants to strengthen India’s pace attack for the future and believe that Zaheer’s experience can make a big difference.
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As part of the move, Zaheer is expected to undergo a special training camp at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bengaluru in the first week of March. This camp will focus only on fast bowlers. Young fast bowlers from across the country are expected to participate and work together under his supervision.
The Times of India quoted a BCCI source as saying, “A batch of fast bowlers from state associations have been invited for a special fast bowling camp from February 28 to March 2 at the COE in Bengaluru under the tutelage of Zaheer. COE cricket chief VVS Laxman has taken a keen interest in the initiative.”
Will Zaheer Khan fully commit to the role of CoE?
Currently, the BCCI Center of Excellence does not have a full-time fast bowling coach. Former bowling coach Troy Cooley completed his four-year tenure in December after turning 60. Since then this post is vacant and if Zaheer agrees then he can get this role.
The source said, “Zaheer is very keen to take up coaching roles. He was associated with Lucknow Super Giants and believes he can help the next generation of cricketers. It is a good sign that a fast bowler of his stature has shown interest in BCCI programs. However, it needs to be seen if he wants to take up a full-time job at the CoE, as it would require him to spend a lot of time away from his family.”
BCCI defines role of fast bowling coach at Center of Excellence
BCCI has already clearly defined the role of fast bowling coach at the Center of Excellence. The coach must work closely with the support staff of the Indian cricket team and create a strong program to develop young fast bowlers in the country.
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The board generally gives preference to Indian coaches who understand the domestic system and emerging players. Currently, Gautam Gambhir has only Sitanshu Kotak with long CoE experience. Now it will be interesting to see whether Zaheer Khan fully commits to the role of CoE or will step into some other bigger role.
Zaheer’s career progressed after India
Zaheer finished his Indian career with 610 wickets across all formats. After retirement, the former fast bowler joined the Mumbai Indians team as the Director of Cricket Operations in 2018 and played a big role in scouting players and planning the team’s strategy.
In September 2022, he was promoted to Global Head of Cricket Development, overseeing talent development across MI’s teams – MI Cape Town in South Africa, MI Emirates in the UAE and MI New York in the USA’s Major League Cricket.