Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are reportedly set to part ways with mentor Zaheer Khan once his one-year contract — signed just last month — comes to an end. As per The Times of India, the franchise plans to bring in a new mentor who will also be given a more expansive role, covering their sister teams — Durban’s Super Giants in the SA20 and the Manchester Originals in The Hundred.
The report also said LSG are looking to appoint a Director of Cricket who will be responsible for the “year-round development” of the entire LSG group.
After Gautam Gambhir moved to Kolkata Knight Riders in 2023, Zaheer Khan replaced him at LSG as mentor. He also worked as bowling coach for the team after Morne Morkel's departure in 2024.
Recently, LSG confirmed the appointment of Bharat Arun, former bowling coach for both India and KKR, to the same role.
According to a source quoted in the report, “Arun’s role is also extensive as he will be given an extra responsibility for scouting and working on their young quicks for Durban’s Super Giants and, from next year, with the Manchester Originals as well."
LSG endured a disappointing 2025 season, finishing seventh in the points table with six wins from 14 matches.
In a statement, Bharat Arun, who will work under head coach Justin Langer, expressed his determination to mould LSG into a “cohesive and tactically sharp” side.
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“It’s an honour to join the Lucknow Super Giants, a franchise that reflects professionalism, ambition, and vision at every level," Arun said.
“My conversations with Dr. Sanjiv Goenka and the management were incredibly energizing — there is a clear intent to invest in young Indian talent and build a long-term legacy. What excites me most is the vision for long-term development. LSG has invested in a young, talented, and dynamic group of Indian fast bowlers — Akash Deep, Avesh Khan, Mayank Yadav, Prince Yadav, Mohsin Khan, and Akash Singh — and I see immense potential in each of them. My mission is to help shape them into a cohesive, fearless, and tactically sharp pace unit that can challenge the best batting line-ups in the world."
Zaheer Khan, who has also served in coaching roles with Mumbai Indians, could emerge as a contender for other franchise jobs ahead of the 2026 season.
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