Chennai Super Kings are set to bring former India pacer Mohit Sharma back into their setup, with the 38-year-old poised to take over as the franchise’s bowling coach ahead of IPL 2027.
Mohit’s appointment will be the first major addition to the support staff assembled by newly appointed head coach Zaheer Khan, as CSK begin reshaping their coaching structure following the end of Stephen Fleming’s 18-year association with the franchise.
Mohit Sharma to Replace Eric Simons
Mohit is set to replace Eric Simons as CSK’s bowling coach. Simons had been part of the coaching setup during Fleming’s tenure, but Zaheer has been given the responsibility of putting together his own support staff for the 2027 season.
CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirmed that Mohit was recommended by Zaheer.
“Mohit will join CSK as our new bowling coach. His name was recommended by our head coach Zaheer Khan. Mohit was tremendous with us as a player as well and we hope he will do a great job as bowling coach,” Viswanathan told The Times of India.
Viswanathan also indicated that further appointments will be made on Zaheer’s recommendation in the coming weeks.
Mohit’s Previous CSK Connection
The appointment represents a return to familiar surroundings for Mohit, who has previously played for CSK across two spells spanning four seasons. He featured prominently for the franchise during the early stages of his IPL career and made 48 IPL appearances for CSK.
Mohit last played in the IPL for Delhi Capitals and announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in December 2025. Across his IPL career, he featured in 120 matches and claimed 134 wickets.
His experience also includes international cricket with India. Mohit played eight T20Is for the national side and was part of India’s squad during the 2015 World Cup. His variations and ability to bowl effectively in the middle and death overs were important elements of his T20 career.
Zaheer was appointed CSK head coach earlier this month, succeeding Fleming after the franchise missed the IPL playoffs for three consecutive seasons. The former India pacer has been given considerable autonomy in choosing his coaching team.
Although Zaheer himself is a specialist fast-bowling figure, CSK have opted to appoint a separate bowling coach, allowing the new head coach to focus on the broader responsibilities of managing the franchise and its cricketing structure.
Assistant coaches Sridharan Sriram and Rajiv Kumar are expected to continue in their respective positions, while the franchise is still working on other appointments. An overseas candidate could also be considered for the batting coach position.