R Ashwin reveals CSK’s shock coaching target ahead of Zaheer Khan

Chennai Super Kings had Ashish Nehra on their radar during their search for Stephen Fleming’s replacement, Ravichandran Ashwin has revealed, shedding light on the franchise’s coaching plans ahead of Zaheer Khan’s appointment.

Fleming had left his long-standing role as head coach of CSK earlier took charge of the England team with the red ball. The franchise eventually appointed Zaheer, but according to Ashwin, Nehra was among the coaches being considered for the important role.

“There have been talks with several coaches. In fact, if I’m not mistaken, I think Ashish Nehra was also in the squad at some stage,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

However, Nehra remains the head coach of Gujarat Titans and oversaw one of the most successful starts in the IPL franchise’s journey. GT won the title in its debut season in 2022 and reached the final again in 2023 and 2026.

Ashwin suggested that CSK look far beyond Nehra. The former India spinner said two other Indian legends and several overseas coaches were also considered, although some potential deals could not be finalised.

“I think there are two other Indian legends whose contracts have also happened,” Ashwin said.

“There were a few foreigners whose contracts were done, but the trade could not happen for many reasons. The reasons were very different. In some cases, they were not ready to sign a one-year contract. In fact, in one case, I know very well that the deal was almost done, but his thing was that he could not work in international tournaments other than CSK, because of which he might suffer financially,” he added.

ASHWIN BACK ZAHEERA’S APPOINTMENT

While Ashwin revealed the names that were discussed during the coaching search, he gave his full support Zaheer’s appointment.

“I think the choice of Zaheer Khan is wonderful. I have no doubt about that. He ticks all the boxes. A smart man, he knows cricket, he knows bowling tactics well and he will fit in brilliantly,” he said.

Ashwin also pointed to Zaheer’s relationship with MS Dhoni as a key factor in the new set-up.

“His relationship with Dhoni is very good. Besides, he is an Indian legend who can work with the boys. It will be a fresh start for Zaheer Khan as head coach,” Ashwin said.

“But it will be very similar. Dhoni and Zaheer Khan’s relationship is good. I think you can see the team going in one direction; there will be no need to pull back and forth,” he added.

Zaheer has previously held coaching and managerial roles in the IPL. He was the mentor of Lucknow Super Giants from 2024 to 2025 and has been the Director of Cricket of Mumbai Indians since 2018. He was promoted to Global Head of Cricket Development in 2022.

Zaheer’s appointment marks a new phase for CSK following Fleming’s departure, with the former India fast bowler now tasked with leading the coaching staff of the five-time champions.

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Issued by:

Saurabh Kumar

Published on:

23 Sep 2026 21:26 IST