IPL: Zaheer Khan to join Lucknow Super Giants as mentor
What's the story
According to ESPNcricinfo, former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan will join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as their mentor for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
This development comes after Gautam Gambhir's departure from LSG following the 2023 IPL season.
Gambhir has since assumed the role of head coach for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024 and is now leading the Indian men's cricket team.
Comeback
Zaheer's return to IPL after two-year hiatus
Zaheer's appointment as mentor marks his return to the IPL after a two-year break.
The former left-arm pacer was previously associated with Mumbai Indians between 2018 and 2022.
His official introduction into LSG is set to take place at the RPSG Group Headquarters on Wednesday.
It will be interesting to see if Zaheer also becomes LSG's bowling coach following the departure of Morne Morkel.
Track record
Zaheer's previous roles and performance in IPL
As mentioned, Zaheer served MI between 2018 and 2022.
As a player, he represented three IPL teams, including MI, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals).
India's best-ever left-arm seamer, Zaheer featured in 100 IPL games, taking 102 wickets at an economy rate of 7.58.
His last appeared in the tournament in 2017, where he led the Capitals. He retired from all forms of cricket thereafter.
Expanded role
LSG's plans for Zaheer beyond mentorship
According to ESPNcricinfo, LSG is considering giving Zaheer a broader role that includes involvement with scouting and player-development programs during the off-season.
This move comes as teams gear up for a mega auction, with the BCCI expected to announce retention rules soon.
The current setup of LSG is led by head coach Justin Langer, who took charge after Andy Flower left.