Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have appointed former South African allrounder Albie Morkel as their assistant coach ahead of the IPL 2027 season. Morkel will join a revamped coaching setup led by Zaheer Khan as the five-time champions look to strengthen their squad and return to winning ways.
The appointment brings Morkel back to a franchise where he enjoyed some of the most successful years of his playing career. Having represented CSK from the inaugural IPL season in 2008 until 2013, he understands the team’s culture, expectations and connection with its passionate supporters.
The franchise has been reshaping its coaching staff ahead of the new season, with several former international cricketers taking up key responsibilities.
Albie Morkel Returns to His Former IPL Team
Morkel represented Chennai Super Kings in 92 matches, playing an important role in the franchise’s early success. During his association with the team, CSK won the IPL titles in 2010 and 2011, along with the Champions League T20 trophy in 2010.
His experience as an allrounder and his familiarity with the franchise make him a valuable addition to the coaching group. The former South African international will now focus on sharing his knowledge with the squad, particularly the younger players preparing for the demands of the IPL.
Speaking about his appointment, Morkel expressed his excitement about returning to the Super Kings family. He recalled the atmosphere at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium and the special memories he created with the franchise, both on and off the field.
Morkel said he was eager to share his experience and help the team’s young players develop their skills.
The 45-year-old has also taken on a significant coaching responsibility in South Africa. In July 2026, he was appointed head coach of Joburg Super Kings in the SA20, replacing Stephen Fleming. His latest role with Chennai Super Kings adds another dimension to his growing coaching career.
Gareth Batty and Mohit Sharma Strengthen CSK Coaching Staff
Morkel will work alongside Gareth Batty, who has joined Chennai Super Kings as an assistant coach after leaving his position as head coach of Surrey.
The franchise has also confirmed former India fast bowler Mohit Sharma as its new bowling coach. Mohit previously represented CSK, making the appointment another reunion with a former player.
Reflecting on his return, Mohit described the opportunity as coming home. He credited Chennai Super Kings with playing a major role in the development of his IPL career and helping him progress towards international cricket.
Mohit also recalled winning the Purple Cap during the 2014 IPL season and being part of the Chennai Super Kings setup that won the Champions League T20 title that year. He said he was looking forward to working with head coach Zaheer Khan and contributing his experience to the team’s bowling department.
His appointment adds a former India international to a coaching group that already includes several experienced names from domestic and international cricket.
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Zaheer Khan Leads CSK’s New Coaching Setup
Chennai Super Kings have made several changes to their coaching structure ahead of IPL 2027, with Zaheer Khan leading the revamped setup.
Sridharan Sriram, who joined the franchise before the 2025 season, will continue as an assistant coach. James Foster has also retained his position as fielding coach, providing continuity alongside the new appointments.
The combination of Zaheer Khan, Albie Morkel, Gareth Batty and Mohit Sharma brings experience across different areas of the game, including fast bowling, allrounder development, fielding and tactical preparation.
For CSK, the challenge will be to translate this coaching experience into consistent performances on the field. The franchise has won five IPL titles but will be keen to build a squad capable of competing strongly in the upcoming season.
Player Retentions Ahead of IPL 2027 Auction
The coaching group’s immediate priority will be to finalise Chennai Super Kings’ player retention list ahead of the IPL 2027 mini auction scheduled for December.
Retention decisions will play a crucial role in determining the team’s composition, available auction purse and strategy for strengthening key areas. The new coaching staff will need to assess the existing squad, identify gaps and determine which players can form the foundation of the team’s next campaign.
Morkel’s previous experience with CSK could prove useful during this process, particularly given his understanding of the franchise’s playing environment and expectations.
With several familiar faces returning in new roles, Chennai Super Kings are preparing for an important transition ahead of IPL 2027. The appointment of Morkel, alongside the additions of Batty and Mohit Sharma, signals the franchise’s intention to combine its established identity with fresh coaching ideas as it targets another title.