LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka praises newly-appointed team mentor Zaheer Khan
What's the story
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) announced the appointment of Zaheer Khan as their mentor for the upcoming 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The news follows negotiations between the two parties, initially reported by Cricbuzz on August 19. In his new role, Zaheer will collaborate with head coach Justin Langer and a coaching team that includes Lance Klusener, Adam Voges, and Jonty Rhodes. LSG owner Sanjeev Goenka praised former Indian cricketer Zaheer. Here are the details.
Goenka's endorsement
Franchise owner praises Zaheer's strategic acumen
Franchise owner Goenka praised Zaheer during the announcement at the RPSG office in Kolkata. "Till some time ago I didn't know that he was no longer with Mumbai Indians. I approached him immediately. It is as simple as that," he said at the unveiling of Zaheer as the new mentor. "He is strategically strong. He has got respect amongst the community without doubt. And his mind is clear."
Coaching transition
Zaheer's role in LSG amid coaching changes
Goenka also acknowledged that Zaheer's recruitment was partly due to dissatisfaction with the team's recent performance. The position of the bowling coach at LSG remains vacant after Morne Morkel's departure to the Indian team. It is yet unclear whether Zaheer will assume this role. However, he is expected to utilize his bowling expertise and act as a crucial link between players and franchise management.
Career recap
Zaheer's previous IPL experience and career highlights
Before joining LSG, Zaheer was associated with Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022. He served as the Director of Cricket before becoming Head of Global Development. The former India pacer has an impressive cricketing record with 92 Tests, 200 ODIs, and 17 T20Is under his belt. He also played in over 100 IPL games for teams including Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Royal Challengers Bangalore (now Royal Challengers Bengaluru), and Mumbai Indians.