The Lucknow Super Giants, an Indian Premier League team, are reportedly negotiating with renowned pace bowler Zaheer Khan for a mentor position, according to a Cricbuzz report published on Monday. He was celebrated for his exceptional pace bowling career and could bring valuable experience and guidance to the franchise. This potential appointment highlights the team’s commitment to enhancing their performance and strategic depth ahead of the upcoming IPL season. The decision is anticipated to have a significant impact on the team’s development.
Lucknow Super Giants is in Talks With Zaheer Khan:
The Lucknow Super Giants have been without a mentor since Gautam Gambhir’s departure to Kolkata in 2023. Additionally, their bowling coach Morne Morkel has recently left to join Team India as their bowling coach.
If negotiations with Zaheer Khan are successful, he will step into the role and fill the gaps left by Gambhir and Morkel’s exits. Zaheer’s potential appointment would address the team’s need for experienced leadership and coaching expertise as they prepare for the upcoming IPL season.
Cricbuzz reported that IPL sources suggest Zaheer Khan is being considered for the mentor role once occupied by Gautam Gambhir. Initially, Zaheer was a potential candidate for the bowling coach position in Gambhir’s new Team India setup, where he was expected to mentor emerging pacers. His potential role with the Lucknow Super Giants could now fill the void left by Gambhir’s departure.
Zaheer Khan’s appointment might have faltered due to the BCCI’s preference for Morne Morkel, reportedly on Gautam Gambhir’s recommendation. Zaheer, known for his influential role in guiding young fast bowlers during his playing career, was initially considered for the position. However, Morkel was chosen instead, reflecting a shift in the BCCI’s coaching strategy and priorities.
Should the Lucknow Super Giants secure Zaheer Khan, he will join forces with head coach Justin Langer and a strong coaching staff that includes Adam Voges, Lance Klusener, and Jonty Rhodes. Additionally, the report mentioned the potential addition of another prominent coach to the Sanjiv Goenka-owned franchise, although specific details about this new appointment remain unclear.
Established in 2022 and purchased for Rs 7090 crore, the Lucknow Super Giants made it to the play-offs in their inaugural seasons. However, in the 2023 edition, they failed to secure a top-four finish due to a lower Net Run Rate (NRR), falling short despite their strong performance throughout the season.
BCCI Yet to Announce The Rule Before IPL 2025:
The BCCI is expected to release the retention rules by the end of the month. Teams are anticipated to be permitted up to six retentions, which will include the Right to Match (RTM) option. Despite some franchises advocating for the elimination of the Big Auction, the BCCI intends to maintain it for the time being. This decision will shape team strategies as they prepare for the upcoming season.
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