Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is all set to take on a new role in the Indian Premier League, joining the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as a strategic advisor ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The elegant right-hander, who went unsold in the previous IPL auction, will now shift from the field to the dugout, bringing his tactical acumen and calm leadership to Lucknow’s backroom setup.
Interestingly, Williamson has already been part of the Super Giants’ ecosystem, having represented Durban’s Super Giants in the SA20 League, where he scored 233 runs in seven innings last season. Despite being an active international cricketer, the 35-year-old will now work off the field alongside head coach Justin Langer, assistant coach Vijay Dahiya, bowling coach Bharat Arun, and all-rounder mentor Lance Klusener.
Confirming the development, Sanjiv Goenka, RPSG Group chairman and owner of LSG, shared his excitement on X (formerly Twitter): “Kane has been a part of the Super Giants family, and it’s an absolute delight to welcome him in his new role as Strategic Advisor. His leadership, strategic insight, and deep understanding of the game make him an invaluable addition to the team.”
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Williamson will effectively replace Zaheer Khan, who served as mentor for just one season before parting ways with the franchise. Justin Langer, whose two-year contract concluded after IPL 2025, has been retained as head coach, signaling Goenka’s trust in the Australian’s leadership. In another strategic move, Carl Crowe, who previously worked with the Kolkata Knight Riders, has been appointed as LSG’s new spin-bowling coach.
Kane has been a part of the Super Giants family and it’s an absolute delight to welcome him in his new role as Strategic Advisor for @LucknowIPL. His leadership, strategic insight, deep understanding of the game, and ability to inspire players make him an invaluable addition to… pic.twitter.com/80EGl4SrmA
— Dr. Sanjiv Goenka (@DrSanjivGoenka) October 16, 2025
According to reports, discussions to bring Williamson on board began three months ago in London, where Goenka met him during The Hundred. Williamson was then leading London Spirit, coached by Langer, which made the transition even smoother. “After my meeting with him in London, Kane and Langer spoke, then Kane and Rishabh Pant had a long discussion. We all agreed he’s the perfect fit,” Goenka revealed.
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Goenka further praised Williamson’s personality, calling him a “frank, open, and motivating leader.” After finishing seventh in IPL 2025, LSG will be hoping that Williamson’s calm mindset and strategic inputs help the team bounce back stronger under Rishabh Pant’s captaincy in the upcoming season.
