In a heartwarming reunion that has captured the hearts of cricket followers worldwide, former India cricketer Zaheer Khan lately met an previous fan after 20 years. This fan had famously held a ‘I like you Zaheer‘ placard throughout a Check match between India and Pakistan in 2005, a second that grew to become an iconic a part of cricket historical past. The reunion came about as Zaheer joined the Lucknow Tremendous Giants (LSG) as their mentor, changing Gautam Gambhir. This second not solely highlights the enduring connection between followers and their idols but in addition marks a brand new chapter in Zaheer’s profession.
The viral second of 2005
In the course of the TVS Cup Check sequence in 2005, a fan’s daring declaration of affection for Zaheer grew to become a viral sensation. The fan, who has now been recognized as the identical individual within the current reunion, held a placard that learn ‘I like you Zaheer.’ This act caught the eye of Zaheer’s teammate Yuvraj Singh, who couldn’t resist teasing him about it. In a playful gesture, Zaheer responded with a flying kiss, leaving the fan blushing and the gang in stitches. This lighthearted second showcased the camaraderie and humour that usually accompanies sports activities occasions.
Cameraman made this second a life time reminiscence for her ❤️ pic.twitter.com/9azgmLM5KV
— Vijay (@veejuparmar) February 21, 2025
The Reunion: A second of nostalgia for Zaheer Khan
Quick-forward to 2025, Zaheer joined the Lucknow Tremendous Giants as their mentor, marking a big shift in his profession. As he arrived on the crew’s setup, he was greeted by the identical fan from 2005, who as soon as once more held up the ‘I like you Zaheer’ placard. The video of this reunion, shared by LSG on social media, has gone viral, bringing again recollections of that iconic second from twenty years in the past. Zaheer’s response to seeing the fan once more was one among shock and delight, highlighting the lasting influence followers can have on their favorite gamers.
Right here’s the video:
Our love for Zak is fixed 💙 pic.twitter.com/ZdgcFdiPtx
— Lucknow Tremendous Giants (@LucknowIPL) March 12, 2025
Additionally READ: In pics: From Rishabh Pant to Ajinkya Rahane – IPL teams celebrate Holi with vibrant festivities ahead of 2025 season
Zaheer’s new function with LSG
Zaheer’s appointment because the mentor of LSG comes after Gautam Gambhir parted methods with the crew to hitch Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for IPL 2024. Gambhir later took on the function of India’s head coach after main KKR to their third IPL title. Zaheer may also function the bowling coach for LSG, bringing his wealth of expertise to the crew. In a press release, Zaheer humorously questioned the necessity for an additional bowling coach, given his presence within the setup. This displays his confidence in his skills and his dedication to contributing to the crew’s success.
LSG’s prospects in IPL 2025
As Zaheer joins LSG, the crew is gearing up for IPL 2025 with excessive hopes. Rishabh Pant, who was acquired by the franchise for a record-breaking 27 crore, will lead the crew. This transfer follows KL Rahul‘s determination to half methods with LSG. Regardless of a disappointing IPL 2024, the place they didn’t qualify for the playoffs, LSG is optimistic about their probabilities within the upcoming season. Zaheer has praised the crew’s constant performances through the years and believes they’ve the potential to excel within the fiercely aggressive IPL atmosphere.
Zaheer is one among India’s most profitable quick bowlers, identified for his reverse swing and yorkers. He performed a vital function in India’s 2011 World Cup victory and has been acknowledged with quite a few awards, together with the Arjuna Award and Padma Shri. With 610 wickets in 309 worldwide matches, Zaheer stays a revered determine within the cricket world. His transition from a participant to a mentor and bowling coach marks a brand new chapter in his profession, the place he’ll proceed to affect the game he loves.
