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Zaheer Khan's Life-Changing Gamble: From Engineering to Cricket Legend
M
Moneycontrol•22-09-2026, 20:14
Zaheer Khan's Life-Changing Gamble: From Engineering to Cricket Legend
- •Zaheer Khan abandoned an engineering career to pursue his passion for cricket, supported by his parents, who famously told him, "Engineers toh bahut saare hein tu bowler hi ban na!"
- •At 17, Zaheer moved to Mumbai, where coach Sudhir Naik recognized his talent and helped him hone his skills at Cross Maidan, a period he fondly remembers.
- •His decision proved pivotal, leading to his India debut in 2000 and a crucial role in India's 2011 ODI World Cup triumph.
- •Zaheer will now take on his first head coach role with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), replacing Stephen Fleming, after previously serving as a mentor for LSG and Mumbai Indians.
- •The former left-arm pacer represented India in 92 Tests, 200 ODIs, and 17 T20Is, and played 100 IPL matches before transitioning to coaching and mentorship.
Key Questions Answered
Zaheer Khan gave up an engineering career to follow his passion for cricket after his father encouraged him, noting there were plenty of engineers and telling him to become a bowler instead.
Zaheer Khan will serve as the head coach of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) starting next season, replacing Stephen Fleming.
In his 14-year international career, Zaheer Khan represented India in 92 Test matches, 200 ODIs, and 17 T20Is.
