CSK name Zaheer Khan as head coach after Hemang Badani talks collapse over contract
CSK name Zaheer Khan as head coach after Hemang Badani talks collapse over contract
Chennai Super Kings have confirmed the appointment of former India pacer Zaheer Khan as their new head coach, ending weeks of speculation over who would succeed Stephen Fleming after the franchise brought its long-term association with the New Zealander to a close.
Badani was the front-runner — until talks broke down
As first reported by TimesofIndia.com, Hemang Badani had been the favourite to take over from Fleming. Negotiations had progressed to the final stages, but the conversations ultimately derailed over a short contract and a reduced portfolio that excluded the franchise's overseas teams.
"Hemang Badani checked all the boxes, and negotiations were even in the final stages regarding money and contract duration. But he was initially given the impression that he would operate across at least three of the franchise's teams. Albie Morkel's appointment as the head coach of Joburg Super Kings in SA20 derailed the conversations with Badani; the contract duration was the real deal-breaker," said a source tracking developments.
CSK insisted on operating on a year-by-year model, while the coaches in conversation wanted at least two years with the side to have a fair shot at setting things in order. Both Badani and another former India cricketer in the race felt it was not right to run a team they had not assembled and then be judged on the results.
A stop-gap before the mega auction?
Zaheer's appointment has surprised observers, and an industry insider suggests it could be a holding measure before the team presses reset at the next mega auction.
"It's not a secret anymore that MS Dhoni is calling the shots with Rupa Gurunath. The way conversations ended with Badani, one more India cricketer and even an overseas candidate makes it clear the franchise is not yet willing to think long-term. Additionally, all these contracts are cyclic in nature. Mega auction to mega auction with an option to extend, of course," the source explained.
The leadership group, under owner Rupa Gurunath, had been keen on an Indian-led support staff. While the exact details of the contract duration and compensation are not yet public, the price bracket CSK were operating around is understood to be between Rs 5 and 7 crore. Times of India reached out to CSK Managing Director KS Viswanathan for details, and the story will be updated should he respond.
Zaheer's road to Chepauk
This will be Zaheer's third role with an IPL franchise. He has previously served in different capacities at Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, with his exits from both setups coming under less-than-ideal circumstances. The 2017 IPL season was his last as a player, ending an illustrious career with 102 wickets from 100 matches.
Speaking on his appointment, Zaheer said: "It's an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. As a cricketer, I have faced CSK on the field and have thoroughly enjoyed the contests. The atmosphere created by the Superfans at Chepauk makes it even more special. I can't wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history."
Rupa Gurunath welcomed Zaheer into the setup, highlighting his track record with emerging players: "We are pleased to confirm Zaheer Khan as the Head Coach for Chennai Super Kings. Zaheer's distinguished playing career and proven ability to nurture young talent make him a valuable addition to our setup. We are confident that his guidance will help strengthen the core of this franchise."