Zaheer Khan replaces Troy Cooley: BCCI rope in India's World Cup 2011-winning pacer to groom fast bowlers after Aussie's departure

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to rope in legendary pacer Zaheer Khan to groom fast bowlers at the Centre of Excellence, Bengaluru. As per a report by TOI, Zaheer will be in charge of specialised training camps in the first week of March.

Zaheer's appointment comes after Australia's Troy Cooley's four-year stint came to an end in December 2025. Cooley has now joined as England's fast-bowling development coach where he will have a similar role to the one he had at the BCCI.

The board had invited applications for the same on February 9 during the first week of 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 keen interest in this initiative,” a BCCI source told TOI.

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“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,” the source added.

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Need for speed as India eye third WTC final

Last year, India were left short-handed against England when Jasprit Bumrah was available for only three out of five Tests. While Mohammed Siraj led from the front to make it 2-2, India need a fast bowler who can deliver consistently or create a pool.

India may try a pace-heavy lineup in the one-off Test against Afghanistan which is scheduled to take place at Dharamsala in June 2026. India would like to replenish their fast-bowling stocks ahead of the New Zealand tour which is scheduled for November 2026.

While Mohammed Shami has fallen out of favour with selectors, Ranji Trophy 2025-26 champions Jammu & Kashmir pace-attack leader Auqib Nabi has been much-talked-about by former cricketers. It is yet to be seen whether he gets maiden call-up for the Afghanistan series. Before that, he will be tested in the IPL 2026, representing Delhi Capitals (DC).