'He is not someone who will bully them': Aakash Chopra's take on Zaheer Khan as new CSK coach for IPL 2027

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has backed Zaheer Khan after his announcement as the Chennai Super Kings head coach. Zaheer has been appointed for IPL 2027 on a one-year contract that carries scope for extension. The announcement was made on September 21, 2026, and marks Zaheer's first head coaching role in professional cricket.

The appointment ends Stephen Fleming's 16-year tenure as CSK head coach. CSK won their last IPL title in 2023 but failed to make the playoffs in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Zaheer previously served as Director of Cricket at Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022 and was mentor at Lucknow Super Giants until September 2025.

As a player, Zaheer represented India in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs and 17 T20Is, and was part of India's 2011 World Cup winning campaign. His move to CSK now sees him step into the head coach's role for the first time. In an assessment of Zaheer's coaching style, Chopra noted the former's proficiency in man-management.

"He is good at management. I mean, he knows how to handle people very well. He knows who to put his hand on, who to give a little more time. Once again, good work ethics. If he feels that this guy has worked a little less, then he is ready to stand with him, that I am there, come with me. You live with me, I live with you. We both live on the field, we work together," Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel.

Why does Aakash Chopra back Zaheer Khan for this role?

Chopra pointed to Zaheer's understanding of player pressure and his willingness to stand up for players rather than dominate them as key qualities for the role.

"If you understand the expectation of the administration and the pressure of the players on the team, if you understand the pressure of playing, then you can draw a very fine line. Or you can say that you can work very well. One more thing that I like about him is that he stands up for players. He is not someone who will bully them. I think he will work very well with Chennai. Because he understands the game, understands cricket, tactically also understands the game. In terms of what is the nerve of the game, what is the DNA, he understands that very well. Secondly, Chennai also needs people like this," Chopra said.

What kind of coach is Zaheer Khan expected to be at CSK?

Zaheer's approach to man-management has been a recurring theme in assessments of his coaching style. Those who have observed him closely describe an individual who prioritises relationships and consistent work on the field over authority or hierarchy. Chopra also highlighted Zaheer's preference for working quietly in the background rather than seeking attention.

"He is not the one who comes to the forefront and takes the limelight. He sits in the background. He will stay in the background, he will keep working quietly, he will focus a lot on the processes. Process, process, Mahi [MS Dhoni], Zaheer. I think the philosophy is right and similar. So, I think it's going to work very well," Chopra added.

This is Zaheer's first assignment as a head coach after his stints in franchise management and mentoring roles. His one-year contract at CSK includes the possibility of an extension, giving the franchise flexibility depending on how IPL 2027 unfolds.