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Zaheer Khan Steps Down As LSG Mentor Due To Differences With Goenka And Langer - Report

Arunima Purohit

Zaheer Khan parts ways with LSG [Source: @mufaddal_vohra] Zaheer Khan parts ways with LSG [Source: @mufaddal_vohra] 

Lucknow Super Giants’ mentor Zaheer Khan has reportedly stepped down from his position, marking the end of a significant chapter for the franchise. Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) mini auction, Zaheer’s decision to part ways with the team has come as a shock to the fans. He joined LSG in August 2024 as their mentor.

While his exit will create a huge void in the dressing room, the reason behind his departure was the clash of ideas with head coach Justin Langer and owner Sanjiv Goenka as reported by ESPN Cricinfo. The cluttered thinking in the dressing room affected Zaheer throughout the 2025 season, forcing him to step down from his post.

Zaheer Khan’s impact on LSG

The former Indian pacer joined LSG after Gautam Gambhir exited the franchise in 2023. Zaheer Khan signed a contract with the Super Giants for two years, and his primary jobs were scouting, planning, and strategy. He had spent five years, from 2018-2022, with the Mumbai Indians (MI) and had a great experience handling the players.

With his sharp cricketing skills, Zaheer Khan mentored some brilliant players like Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, and other pacers in the squad. Moreover, the former pacer’s contributions weren’t just limited to the bowling department. During matches, he was seen giving strategic insights, contributing to field placements, and making other tactical decisions.

Report added that it was Zaheer Khan’s decision to send captain Rishabh Pant down the order and let Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram open the innings. This worked like a miracle for the team in the first few matches. Being an experienced player and a mentor, some of the decisions made by him helped the team in the IPL 2025. Hence, the Super Giants will most likely miss his services in the upcoming seasons.

Challenges ahead for LSG

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) finished the IPL 2025 in seventh position. Despite a rocky start to the tournament, they had managed to gain the pace needed to qualify for the playoffs. However, the last few matches turned the tables for LSG. Moreover, this isn’t the first time something like this has happened with the Super Giants.

With the IPL mini auction approaching in a few months, the franchise will have to look for another mentor, scout players, and make a list of cricketers they’ll have an eye on in the auction. With Zaheer Khan’s exit, the transition will be key for the franchise.