Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Oct 28: Five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have appointed former South African all-rounder Albie Morkel as their assistant coach ahead of the 2027 season.

The appointment comes amid a major reshuffle in the franchise’s coaching department. Zaheer Khan was recently named head coach, while Gareth Batty has also joined the team as an assistant coach. Former India cricketer Mohit Sharma has been appointed bowling coach.

Morkel shares a long association with CSK, having represented the franchise from 2008 to 2013. He played 92 matches for the team and was part of the squads that won IPL titles in 2011 and 2013.

In July 2026, Morkel was appointed head coach of Joburg Super Kings in South Africa’s SA20 league. His return to the Chennai franchise is expected to bring valuable experience to the coaching setup as the team prepares for the next IPL season.

“I share a special bond with the Super Kings family. 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 said in a statement released by CSK.

Meanwhile, Mohit Sharma’s appointment as bowling coach marks his return to the franchise he represented during his playing career.

“It is an absolute pleasure to return to the franchise I once represented, and it feels like coming back home. 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,” Mohit said.

The new coaching team’s initial task will include finalising the squad retention list ahead of the IPL 2027 auction as CSK prepare for the upcoming season.