Zaheer Khan May Join Lucknow Super Giants as Mentor and Bowling Coach

Former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan is in talks with the IPL team Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for a dual role in their coaching setup, according to a media report.

LSG, who have made it to the playoffs twice in their three IPL seasons, are looking to fill key positions after losing their mentor Gautam Gambhir, who rejoined Kolkata Knight Riders and later took on the role of head coach for the Indian men's cricket team. They also lost their bowling coach, Morne Morkel, who is set to work with Gambhir in the national team.

If the deal goes through, Zaheer Khan could take on the roles of both mentor and bowling coach for LSG in the upcoming IPL season. The report suggests that Zaheer would also act as a crucial link between the players and the team management. He would join a coaching staff that includes Justin Langer, Adam Voges, Lance Klusener, and Jonty Rhodes.

Zaheer was previously in the running for the Indian cricket team’s bowling coach position before Morne Morkel was chosen, thanks to Gambhir's preference. Zaheer, who played in 100 IPL matches and was part of India's 2011 World Cup-winning team, would be taking on his second coaching role in the IPL, having earlier worked with Mumbai Indians.

In related news, the BCCI is expected to announce the retention rules for the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction by the end of August. Reports indicate that the 10 franchises might be allowed to retain up to six players, along with the Right to Match (RTM) option.