Jahir Khan named CSK head coach ahead of IPL 2027, Dhoni consulted

New Delhi, September 21 – The Chennai Super Kings have officially announced that former international bowler Jahir Khan will serve as head coach for the 2027 Indian Premier League edition. Managing Director Kashi Vishwanathan disclosed that the selection was made in close collaboration with former captain MS Dhoni, whose advice was deemed indispensable.

Khan, 47, succeeds New Zealand’s Stephen Fleming, who departed after an 18‑year affiliation with the franchise. The appointment was ratified by CSK’s cricket management core, which includes Rupa Gurunath and current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad.

While the press release confirmed the hire, it omitted contract length, implying a probable one‑year engagement. Vishwanathan told IANS that Khan’s 100+ IPL matches and all‑rounder background made him an ideal candidate for the coaching bench.

Asked about Dhoni’s playing future after his injury‑ridden 2026 season, the former skipper responded that he remains a player for CSK, leaving the door open for future appearances.

Khan now has authority over the support staff, presently comprising Mike Hasi, Sridharan Sriraam, Rajeev Kumar, Eric Simms and James Foster. His résumé features a tenure as Director of Cricket Operations for Mumbai Indians (2018‑2022) and a head‑of‑global‑development role. He also mentored Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 and holds co‑ownership stakes in Antwerp Anchors (European T20 Premier League), Jaffna Kings (Sri Lanka’s LPL) and Vancouver Anchors (Canada’s Super60 League).

The immediate priority for Khan will be to craft a retention strategy before the December mini‑auction, targeting players the franchise wishes to keep as it seeks to end a three‑year playoff absence.