Zaheer Khan in Talks to Join LSG as Mentor Ahead of IPL 2024

Former India pacer Zaheer Khan is reportedly in discussions with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to become their new mentor, as per ESPNcricinfo.

The franchise, which has been looking to strengthen its coaching staff, is keen on bringing the experienced cricketer into their setup. In addition to LSG, two other IPL franchises have also shown interest in the 45-year-old former cricketer.

Zaheer previously served as the head of global development for the Mumbai Indians (MI) and later became the director of cricket for the franchise from 2018 to 2022. His potential addition to LSG comes after the mentor position became vacant when Gautam Gambhir, who served in the role, left to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Under Gambhir's mentorship, KKR clinched their third IPL title.

There were earlier speculations that Zaheer might become India's bowling coach, but the position eventually went to former South African pacer Morne Morkel, who joined Gambhir’s coaching staff with the national team.

If the deal with LSG goes through, Zaheer is expected to take on a broader role that includes scouting and player development programs during the off-season. Currently, Justin Langer serves as the head coach of LSG, having replaced Andy Flower before IPL 2024. Despite Langer's leadership, LSG failed to reach the playoffs in the previous season.

Zaheer Khan is regarded as one of India’s greatest left-arm pacers, with an illustrious career that includes 311 Test wickets in 92 matches and 610 wickets across all formats for India. In the IPL, he has represented Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils, taking 102 wickets in 100 matches with an economy rate of 7.59.