Raipur
Win Projections to be updated soon
Two other franchises have also shown interest in Zaheer, who previously served as head of global development at Mumbai Indians (MI) and director of cricket for the franchise from 2018-2022.
In addition to the mentorship role, LSG is interested in expanding Zaheer’s involvement to include scouting and player development initiatives during the offseason.
The backroom staff at LSG is currently led by Justin Langer, who took over as head coach in 2024, along with assistants Lance Klusener and Adam Voges. Despite making the playoffs in their first two seasons, the team narrowly missed out on a top-four spot in 2024.
Zaheer’s potential return to the IPL coincides with teams preparing for a mega auction. The retention rules for the IPL are expected to be announced by early September.
Zaheer has previously played for three franchises – MI, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Delhi Daredevils – during his career. He appeared in 100 matches across ten seasons, taking 102 wickets at an economy rate of 7.59. His last IPL appearance was in 2017 when he captained Daredevils before retiring from all forms of cricket.
Meanwhile, Punjab Kings are in search of an Indian head coach to replace Trevor Bayliss. Initially considering VVS Laxman for the role, they are now looking to Sanjay Bangar as head of cricket development after Laxman extended his term at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy.
