3 areas Zaheer Khan needs to fix at CSK before IPL 2027

Zaheer Khan was confirmed as Chennai Super Kings head coach on September 21, 2026, replacing Stephen Fleming ahead of IPL 2027. Fleming had been associated with CSK since 2008 and guided the franchise to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies before stepping down in July 2026.

CSK have not made the playoffs since winning the IPL title in 2023. They finished 10th in IPL 2025 and eighth in IPL 2026, missing the playoffs for the third consecutive season. Zaheer, who holds a one-year contract, is expected to begin his role soon and has stated he hopes to work closely with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni and the entire management to help CSK win the trophy.

Here are three areas Zaheer Khan needs to fix at CSK before IPL 2027:

Bring experienced pacers to the mix

Over the last two seasons, CSK have heavily relied on unproven talent and young pacers, leaving their bowling attack vulnerable in high-pressure situations, particularly away from Chepauk. As a legendary former left-arm quick, Zaheer understands that raw pace is ineffective without tactical execution. With Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh, Anshul Kamboj, Nathan Ellis, Matt Henry, Spencer Johnson, Akash Madhwal, Zak Foulkes and Jamie Overton among the recent options, CSK will need greater experience and consistency in their pace department.

While their home conditions often demand a strong spin attack, the franchise also needs seasoned fast bowlers capable of handling the death overs. Zaheer could use his influence at the auction to target established Indian or overseas pacers who are adept at defensive field settings, executing yorkers and using subtle variations in pace. Having an experienced bowling leader in the setup could also allow CSK’s young prospects to develop without being exposed to excessive pressure.

Build a good backroom staff from scratch

With Stephen Fleming‘s departure after an 18-year association, CSK’s support staff is set for a significant reset. However, CSK Managing Director K.S. Viswanathan has stated that Zaheer will have complete freedom to choose his own support staff. Zaheer will therefore be tasked with building a modern, data-driven backroom team from the ground up.

He will need to bring in specialised batting, fielding and sports science experts who align with his vision. Rather than replicating the previous structure, Zaheer can introduce fresh perspectives by working with high-performance analysts capable of dissecting match-ups and developing strategies tailored to the demands of T20 cricket.

Navigate a change in captaincy

While Ruturaj Gaikwad was part of the leadership group that selected Zaheer, a transition period inevitably raises questions about CSK’s on-field leadership. After the team’s recent lower-table finishes, Zaheer will have to assess whether to continue backing Gaikwad and strengthen his leadership group or make changes ahead of the 2027 season.

If Zaheer and MS Dhoni decide to retain Gaikwad as captain, Zaheer’s task will be to build a strong tactical support system around him by adding experienced players to the leadership group. Alternatively, if CSK opt for a change in leadership or pursue an established captain through the upcoming auction or trade window, Zaheer will need to manage the transition carefully to maintain stability within the dressing room. CSK also have Sanju Samson, who brings considerable captaincy experience from his stint with Rajasthan Royals, as another potential leadership option.