Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have strengthened their coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027 by appointing former South African allrounder Albie Morkel as assistant coach, marking the return of one of the franchise’s most familiar faces.
The five-time IPL champions are rebuilding their support staff under new head coach Zaheer Khan, with several former players and experienced coaches joining the setup.
Morkel, 45, shares a long association with CSK, having played for the franchise from the inaugural IPL season in 2008 until 2013. During that period, he featured in 92 matches and helped Chennai win consecutive IPL titles in 2010 and 2011, along with the Champions League T20 trophy in 2010.
His appointment also follows his promotion to head coach of Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 competition in July, when he replaced Stephen Fleming.
Expressing his happiness at returning to Chennai, Morkel recalled the atmosphere at Chepauk and his connection with the supporters.
“I share a special bond with the Super Kings family,” Morkel said in a franchise statement. “The sound of the fans and the whistles at Chepauk is something that has reverberated in my ears since my playing days. I have special memories at Chennai Super Kings, both on and off the field. I am excited to share my knowledge and experience with the youngsters in the team.”
Morkel will be joined by Gareth Batty, who has stepped down as Surrey head coach to take up an assistant coaching position with CSK.
Meanwhile, former Indian pacer Mohit Sharma has officially been appointed bowling coach, confirming an earlier report by Cricbuzz on September 29.
Mohit, who began his IPL career with Chennai, described his return as an emotional homecoming.
“It is an absolute pleasure to return to the franchise I once represented, and it feels like coming back home,” Mohit said in a statement. “I started my IPL career with CSK and it acted as the catalyst that propelled me into the national circuit. I have some wonderful memories with the Super Kings, especially winning the Purple Cap award and the 2014 CLT20 title. I look forward to sharing my inputs and work alongside Head Coach Zaheer Khan.”
CSK have also retained Sridharan Sriram as assistant coach and James Foster as fielding coach, ensuring some continuity within the revamped coaching department.
The immediate challenge for Zaheer and his staff will be finalising Chennai’s player retention list before the IPL 2027 mini auction in December.
With familiar faces returning and fresh coaching experience added, CSK will hope their revamped backroom team can help the franchise challenge for a record-extending sixth IPL championship.
