The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have appointed former Indian pace bowler Zaheer Khan as their mentor for the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. This move comes as the franchise seeks to bolster its leadership structure after a tough 2024 season. That season the team missed the playoffs for the first time since its inception.
Zaheer Khan, a veteran of Indian cricket, brings experience both as a player and a team leader. His appointment is essential for the LSG's coaching staff. He will work closely with head coach Justin Langer and his team, including Lance Klusener, Adam Voges, and Jonty Rhodes. They form a formidable coaching lineup. The aim is to drive the team to new heights in the 2025 season.
Zaheer's role as a mentor will involve guiding and developing LSG's young talents. He is also in charge of providing strategic insights to the coaching staff. Yet, with the team's bowling coach position is currently vacant following Morne Morkel's departure to join the Indian national team. There is speculation about whether Zaheer might take on more responsibilities. His experience as a fast bowler and his previous role as Director of Cricket with Mumbai Indians (MI) makes him a strong candidate to fill that gap.
Zaheer Khan is no stranger to the IPL. He played ten seasons for Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). Over his IPL career, he played 100 matches, claiming 102 wickets at an economy rate of 7.59. His contributions on the pitch were significant. Khan made his last appearance in 2017 as the Daredevils' captain.
Following his retirement from cricket, Zaheer transitioned into a management role. He has made substantial contributions to MI's success. Between 2018 and 2022, he served as MI's Director of Cricket and later as Head of Global Development. His guidance was instrumental in shaping the team's strategy and player development initiatives. His return to the IPL as LSG's mentor marks a new chapter in his career.
Zaheer Khan's appointment is pivotal for LSG. Last season, the team operated without a mentor after Gautam Gambhir, who previously held the role, moved to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). It coincided with LSG's first-ever failure to qualify for the playoffs. The loss signaled a need for stronger leadership and strategic guidance.
The upcoming 2025 IPL season is crucial for LSG as the league prepares for a mega auction. The retention rules, expected to be announced by early September, will shape the team rosters and strategies for the season. Zaheer's input may be invaluable as LSG assembles a competitive squad capable of contending for the title.
Zaheer Khan's integration into the LSG setup is likely to bring a renewed focus on discipline, strategic planning, and player development. His past success in the IPL offers LSG a potential edge as they seek to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 season.
With the 2025 IPL season on the horizon, LSG's management will be counting on Zaheer Khan's cricketing acumen. This may help steer the franchise back to the playoffs and beyond. As the team begins its preparations, fans and experts will be keenly watching how Zaheer Khan Khan's influence shapes the future of Lucknow Super Giants.