Zaheer takes over from Stephen Fleming, who ended his long association with the franchise after 18 years and subsequently joined England as their men’s Test head coach.
The former left-arm pacer has worked in several coaching and mentoring roles since retiring from the IPL in 2017.
He represented Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals as a player before joining Mumbai Indians as their Director of Cricket Operations ahead of the 2019 season. He later became the franchise’s head of global development.
Zaheer most recently served as mentor of Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 before leaving the franchise ahead of the following season.
“It’s an honour to be a part of one of the most successful teams in the history of the IPL. As a cricketer, I have faced CSK on the field and have thoroughly enjoyed the contests,” Zaheer said.
“The atmosphere created by the Superfans at Chepauk makes it even more special. I can’t wait to join the legacy franchise with such a rich history.”
