The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has roped in former cricketer Zaheer Khan to groom fast bowlers at the Centre of Excellence (CoE), Bengaluru.
As per reports, Zaheer will be incharge of specialised training camps in the first week of March.
His appointment comes after Troy Cooley’s tenure ended in December 2026. Troy Cooley, who had a four-year contract, has joined England’s fast-bowling development coach, where he will have a similar role.
BCCI has invited applications on February 09 during the first week of the Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
“A batch of fast bowlers has been invited from state associations for a special fast-bowling camp from Feb 28- March 2 at CoE in Bengaluru under the tutelage of Zaheer. Head of cricket at CoE, VVS Laxman, has taken a keen interest in this initiative,” said a BCCI source.
“Zaheer is very keen on taking up coaching roles. He was involved with Lucknow Super Giants and believes he can help the next generation of cricketers. It’s a good sign that a fast bowler of his stature has shown interest in BCCI programmes.”
“However, it needs to be seen if he wants to take up a full-time job at CoE as it will require him to commit a lot of time away from his family,” said a source.
India’s pace bowling department needs replenishing, as it has only limited options across formats. Particularly, in red-ball format, there have been concerns over selections as Jasprit Bumrah plays only a limited number of games in long test series.
Last year, Bumrah played only three out of five tests against England. On this occasion, India needs a fast bowler who can deliver consistently.
With India set to host Afghanistan on a one-off test to be played at Dharamsala, India might try up a pace-heavy lineup.
India will likely replenish their fast bowler stocks ahead of the New Zealand tour, which is scheduled for November 2026.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Shami has been out of favours from selectors. On the other hand, Ranji Trophy 2025-26 champions Jammu and Kashmir pace bowler Auqib Navi, who has made his appearance in the IPL 2026 after joining the DC 2026 squad, has caught the attention of former cricketers.
It is yet to be seen whether he gets his maiden call-up for the Afghanistan series. The BCCI has been considering Indian coaches for roles with the Indian team, prioritising those who have progressed through its system and understand the cricketers emerging from it.
Comments are closed.