Zaheer Khan Joins LSG as Mentor for IPL 2025, Replacing Gautam Gambhir

Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has been appointed as the mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Zaheer takes over the role from Gautam Gambhir, who departed the franchise in 2024 to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The announcement was made on Wednesday via LSG’s social media channels following a press conference hosted by franchise owner Sanjeev Goenka.

Zaheer, Lucknow ke dil mein aap bohot pehle se ho 🇮🇳💙 pic.twitter.com/S5S3YHUSX0

— Lucknow Super Giants (@LucknowIPL) August 28, 2024

Zaheer Khan will oversee the overall development of LSG players, a crucial role that had been vacant since Gambhir’s departure. Under Gambhir’s mentorship, LSG reached the IPL playoffs in consecutive seasons, working closely with former coach Andy Flower. However, the 2024 season saw a decline in LSG’s performance, with the team failing to make the top four under the guidance of Justin Langer.

Zaheer’s inclusion is expected to strengthen LSG’s bowling department, especially after the departure of bowling coach Morne Morkel, who joined the Indian national team as an assistant coach. Known for his exceptional skills as both a player and coach, Zaheer Khan is regarded as one of India’s finest fast bowlers. His illustrious career spanned over two decades, during which he played a pivotal role in India’s 2011 ODI World Cup victory and claimed 311 wickets in 92 Test matches.

In the IPL, Zaheer represented teams like Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Daredevils, achieving the milestone of 100 wickets in 2017. After retiring from international cricket in 2015, Zaheer transitioned into coaching, previously contributing to Mumbai Indians’ success.