IPL 2026: Lucknow Super Giants name Kane Williamson as strategic advisor, replacing Zaheer Khan

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have announced the appointment of New Zealand cricket icon Kane Williamson as their strategic advisor ahead of the IPL 2026 season, signalling a strong intent to enhance the team's performance and tactical depth. The franchise, owned by Sanjiv Goenka, described Williamson’s leadership, strategic insight, deep understanding of the game, and ability to inspire players as invaluable assets for the team’s future success.

Williamson, 35, who has enjoyed an illustrious IPL career spanning ten seasons from 2015 to 2024, including winning the Orange Cap in 2018 and leading Sunrisers Hyderabad to the final, is transitioning into a mentorship and advisory role while continuing limited playing commitments globally. He has previously featured in the SA20 league for Durban’s Super Giants, a sister franchise to LSG, highlighting his close ties to the Goenka-owned teams.

The appointment fills the strategic advisor role left vacant after the departure of former India fast bowling great Zaheer Khan. Alongside head coach Justin Langer and bowling coach Bharat Arun—both retained for IPL 2026—Williamson’s addition aims to strengthen LSG’s on-field strategies and player development. The team finished seventh in both 2024 and 2025 IPL seasons and is eager to rejuvenate its squad around captain Rishabh Pant, the highest-paid player in IPL history.