In a major development ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, former India speedster Zaheer Khan is set to join Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as their mentor. The 45-year-old left-arm pacer will be returning to the Indian Premier League after a two-year hiatus, following his previous stint with Mumbai Indians. A formal announcement of Zaheer's appointment is scheduled to take place at the RPSG Group Headquarters in Kolkata on Wednesday.

Zaheer Khan to fill Gautam Gambhir's role

Zaheer Khan’s appointment as LSG’s mentor comes after the departure of Gautam Gambhir, who left the team to rejoin his former franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Gambhir's return to KKR proved fruitful, as he led the team to the IPL title in 2024. Gambhir has since moved on to become India's head coach. With Zaheer’s arrival, LSG aims to fill the leadership vacuum and bring in a wealth of experience both as a former player and a coach.

During his tenure with Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022, Zaheer initially served as the director of cricket before taking on the role of head of global development. His expertise in managing and developing teams is expected to benefit LSG, not only on the field but also in shaping the team’s future.

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A return to the IPL 

Zaheer Khan’s appointment also marks the beginning of his new journey with LSG. Zaheer has had a distinguished IPL career, having played for three franchises: Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils. Over 10 IPL seasons, Zaheer featured in 100 matches and took 102 wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.58. His final appearance in the IPL was in 2017 when he captained Delhi Daredevils before retiring from all forms of cricket.

Beyond his role as mentor, Zaheer will also focus on scouting and player development during the off-season, enhancing LSG’s long-term prospects. With the addition of Zaheer to the coaching staff, LSG’s management team now includes head coach Justin Langer, who took over from Andy Flower last season, and assistant coaches Lance Klusener and Adam Voges.

As Lucknow Super Giants gear up for the IPL 2025 mega auction, Zaheer Khan’s experience and insights are expected to provide a crucial edge to the franchise.