With the upcoming IPL 2025 season, several teams are gearing up for significant changes, and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) is no exception. The franchise, owned by Sanjiv Goenka, is reportedly planning to appoint former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan as their new mentor, a move that could bring a fresh perspective to the team.
Zaheer Khan to Replace Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir, who has been associated with LSG as a mentor, is likely to step down from his role, paving the way for Zaheer Khan’s entry. Gambhir, who has recently taken up the role of head coach for the Indian national team, might pass the baton to Zaheer, who is expected to bring in his vast experience from both international and domestic cricket.
A Lucrative Deal for Zaheer Khan
Reports suggest that LSG is ready to offer Zaheer Khan a lucrative package, potentially surpassing the ₹3.50 crore per season that was paid to Gambhir. Zaheer, who has previously served as the Director of Cricket Operations for Mumbai Indians, is no stranger to the IPL environment. His deep understanding of the game and strategic acumen could be instrumental in shaping LSG’s fortunes in the upcoming season.
Zaheer Khan’s Stellar Cricketing Career
Zaheer Khan is one of India’s most celebrated fast bowlers, with an impressive record in international cricket. Over his career, he has taken 311 wickets in 92 Test matches and 282 wickets in 200 ODIs. His IPL career is equally notable, with 102 wickets in 100 matches. Known for his leadership on the field, Zaheer was often referred to as the “bowling captain” by then-skipper MS Dhoni, particularly during India’s successful 2011 World Cup campaign.
Possible Changes in LSG Leadership
Alongside Zaheer Khan’s potential appointment, there are also murmurs of a change in LSG’s captaincy. KL Rahul, who has led the team for the past three seasons without securing an IPL title, may step down. This decision could lead to the appointment of a new captain, as the franchise looks to redefine its strategy and build a winning combination for the future.
As LSG prepares for these anticipated changes, fans are eagerly awaiting official announcements, which could mark a new chapter for the franchise.