Ashwin reveals CSK considered Nehra before appointing Zaheer Khan

Ravichandran Ashwin said Chennai Super Kings held conversations with several coaches before appointing Zaheer Khan as head coach for IPL 2027. Ashwin said Ashish Nehra was among those considered for the role after Stephen Fleming's departure to become England red-ball coach. Nehra remains head coach of Gujarat Titans, where he has overseen one of the most successful starts to a franchise's IPL journey.

Ashwin said CSK also spoke with two other Indian legends and several overseas coaches, though some deals did not materialise due to contract length and scheduling conflicts. Ashwin backed Zaheer's appointment, saying the former India pacer ticks all the boxes with his cricketing intelligence and tactical understanding of bowling. He added that Zaheer's relationship with MS Dhoni will ensure the team moves in one direction.

Zaheer previously served as Lucknow Super Giants' mentor and Mumbai Indians' Director of Cricket. He will represent CSK at the IPL mini auction later this year.