'What kind of cricketing culture...': Zaheer Khan Reveals Why He Joined LSG After Leaving MI

Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has opened up about what motivated him to take on the mentorship role at the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for the upcoming IPL season. During a press conference on Wednesday, Zaheer revealed that the decision stemmed from a shared vision between him and the franchise's management regarding the future direction of the team.

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Zaheer Khan on joining LSG

Zaheer Khan's involvement is expected to bring a wealth of experience and strategic insight to the Lucknow Super Giants as they aim to solidify their standing in the IPL.

"We got on the call and we figured that we have a very similar stance on many things when it comes to cricket and where LSG should go in the future, what kind of cricketing culture, what kind of cricketing values the team should have, and the brand of cricket the team should play. Building blocks for that are pretty much in place. Lucknow Super Giants is relatively a very young franchise in IPL but it has not been looked upon like that," Zaheer said. 

"The process is something that will be required and which will be my responsibility. I will make sure that the process, that is required for each individual to express themselves fully to bring a lot of victories to the franchise," he added.

At Mumbai Indians, Zaheer served as the director of cricket before taking on the role of head of global development.

LSG currently do not have a bowling coach, after the departure of South African speedster Morne Morkel, who has joined Gautam Gambhir's coaching staff in the Indian team.

"Do you need a bowling coach when I'm here? I will do everything that the team needs," Zaheer said.

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It is learnt that Zaheer will also be involved in scouting and player-development programme during the off season.

Before getting into coaching, Zaheer played for three IPL teams -- Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils).

Over 10 seasons, Zaheer appeared in 100 matches for these teams, claiming 102 wickets at an economy rate of 7.58.

His final outing in the IPL was in 2017 when he captained the Delhi Daredevils, after which he retired from all forms of cricket.

(With PTI inputs)