Albie Morkel named CSK assistant coach ahead of IPL 2027

Albie Morkel, a former South African all-rounder, has been hired as an assistant coach by Chennai Super Kings in advance of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027. He will join the franchise's new coaching staff, which is led by Zaheer Khan, as they attempt to win their fifth IPL title.

Since the Super Kings' inaugural IPL season in 2008, Morkel has been closely associated with the team, representing them until 2013. He played 92 games for CSK, winning the Champions League T20 in 2010 and two IPL titles in 2010 and 2011.

The 45-year-old was elevated to the role of head coach of Joburg Super Kings in SA20 in July this year, taking over from Stephen Fleming, who stepped down from the position.

Morkel will collaborate with Gareth Batty, who left his position as head coach at Surrey to become an assistant coach at CSK.

Morkel stated in a statement issued by the franchise, "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 eager to impart my knowledge and experience to the team's youngsters.

"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 career in the IPL with CSK, and that was the impetus that led me to the national circuit. I have some wonderful Super Kings memories, particularly winning the Purple Cap and the CLT20 title in 2014. I look forward to sharing my inputs and work alongside Head Coach Zaheer Khan.”

Sridharan Sriram, who joined the Super Kings ahead of IPL 2025, will stay on as an assistant coach while James Foster has also been retained as the fielding coach.

Before the mini auction in December, the coaching group will begin by finalizing the squad retention list.