Zaheer Khan has started his new journey as the head coach of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) with a clear focus on taking the famous franchise forward in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In his first interview after taking charge, Zaheer Khan spoke about protecting CSK’s identity.
The former India pacer also opened up about CSK’s young captain, the experience in the squad, Stephen Fleming’s contribution, and the strong bond between the team, management, and fans. Amid this, Ashish Nehra was in the frame for CSK head coach job, reveals Ravichandran Ashwin.
Zaheer Khan focuses on protecting the brand CSK
Zaheer Khan feels his move to Chennai Super Kings is special because he has joined a franchise where a strong cricket culture has been built over many years. The new head coach’s main aim will be to protect that identity and take the team to the level expected by everyone.
Zaheer Khan said in a video posted by CSK on X (formerly Twitter): “It feels very special that I am coming to the right place, I would say. The brand of cricket was established through years of hard work, and it’s about protecting that brand. It’s about taking things forward from here.”
New coach wants Ruturaj Gaikwad to lead with more confidence at CSK
The head coach wants to help CSK’s young captain Ruturaj Gaikwad handle the responsibility. He wants Gaikwad to become more confident and empower himself while also using the experience available inside the squad. He wants to create a team where different players can take responsibility and guide others when needed.
He added, “Young captain, how he’s going to shoulder the responsibility, how he’s going to empower himself, and the experience in the squad. How you can make them the leaders in their own way.” Amid this, Who is Vansh Bedi? Ex-CSK star taking social media by storm.
Zaheer Khan reveals Stephen Fleming and MS Dhoni’s special CSK connection
Zaheer also highlighted the consistency and strong team environment created during Stephen Fleming’s time at CSK. He believes that Fleming’s camaraderie with MS Dhoni has played an important role in building the franchise’s culture over the years.
He now wants to continue that strong foundation while adding his own ideas to the setup. Zaheer is also well-versed with Chennai and its surroundings, having spent a lot of time in the Andhra Nagar area during his playing days. This connection has made his new role feel even more special.
Zaheer further shared, “When you talk about Fleming, it’s about the consistency; it’s about the camaraderie that he’s had with MS. It’s something that has been very special. Just about taking the team to the level that everyone expects them to be. Andhra Nagar is something where we used to stay. Obviously, that area I’m very familiar with. I spent a lot of time there.”
Zaheer Khan reveals his big mantra for taking CSK forward
He also wants the franchise to keep evolving according to the changing demands of the game while maintaining the trust and faith of the players and supporters. As a coach, Zaheer wants to be a good listener, remain realistic, and give players the confidence and freedom to grow.
Zaheer signed off by saying, “It’s about evolving with the changing times and creating that faith. It’s a settled franchise. It’s been years that a lot of processes are already in place. The team and the fans look like a big family. The togetherness is something that is very special. A good listener, realistic and very empowering.”
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Source: cricketaddictor.com
