IPL 2027: CSK Bring Back Albie Morkel, Appoint Mohit Sharma as Bowling Coach

IPL 2027: CSK Appoint Albie Morkel as Zaheer Khan’s Deputy, Mohit Sharma Takes Charge of Bowling

Chennai Super Kings have unveiled key changes to their coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027, appointing former South African all-rounder Albie Morkel as deputy to head coach Zaheer Khan and former India pacer Mohit Sharma as the team’s new bowling coach.

The appointments are part of a major restructuring exercise by the five-time IPL champions as they seek to bounce back after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. Zaheer, who succeeded Stephen Fleming as head coach, is overseeing the formation of a new-look support staff ahead of the upcoming season.

CSK have also brought in former England spinner Gareth Batty as an assistant coach, adding further experience to the revamped coaching group.

Mohit Sharma Returns to Familiar Surroundings
Mohit is set to begin a new chapter in his cricketing career after being appointed CSK’s bowling coach. The former India fast bowler has considerable experience in the IPL, having featured in 120 matches and taken 134 wickets during his playing career.

The 38-year-old first represented Chennai between 2013 and 2015 before returning to the franchise in 2019. He subsequently enjoyed a successful stint with Gujarat Titans, playing an important role in their run to the IPL 2023 final. His last IPL appearance came for Delhi Capitals, and he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in December 2025.

Mohit will take over from Eric Simons, who worked as CSK’s bowling coach under Fleming. His experience across different IPL teams and his previous association with Chennai could help the franchise strengthen its bowling department.

His appointment was highlighted during Zaheer’s visit to Chennai, where the head coach appeared in a promotional video alongside the franchise mascot, Leo.

Albie Morkel Takes Up Deputy Role
CSK have also welcomed back a familiar face by appointing Albie Morkel as Zaheer’s deputy. The former South African international played for Chennai from 2008 to 2013 and was an important member of the franchise during its successful years.

Morkel has remained connected with the Super Kings organisation through its overseas teams. He recently became head coach of Joburg Super Kings in South Africa’s SA20 league following Fleming’s departure from the position.

His international experience and understanding of the franchise’s culture are expected to strengthen the coaching set-up as Chennai look to rebuild their squad and return to the top of the IPL standings.

Michael Hussey Among Departures in Coaching Overhaul
The appointments come alongside several exits from CSK’s existing support staff. Long-serving batting coach Michael Hussey has parted ways with the franchise after years of involvement as both a player and coach. He assumed the batting coach position in 2018.

Bowling coach Eric Simons and fielding coach James Foster have also left Chennai to join Fleming’s England Test coaching team.

Batty’s appointment further strengthens Zaheer’s backroom staff. The former England international recently stepped down as Surrey’s head coach to take up the IPL assignment.

CSK Look to Rebuild Ahead of Retention Deadline
With the November 15 retention deadline approaching, Chennai face important decisions about their playing squad before the auction. The franchise will be hoping that the revamped coaching team can identify weaknesses, improve consistency and build a competitive combination for IPL 2027.

After three successive seasons without a playoff finish, the Super Kings are under pressure to deliver a turnaround. The appointments of Morkel and Mohit, alongside Zaheer’s leadership, mark a fresh phase for the franchise as it pursues a sixth IPL title.