Ex-CSK player Albie Morkel named as Joburg Super Kings Coach ahead of SA20 Season

The Joburg Super Kings (JSK) on Thursday officially announced the appointment of former South Africa all-rounder and Chennai Super Kings stalwart Albie Morkel as the franchise’s new Head Coach.

The 45-year-old takes over from long-serving coach Stephen Fleming, whose mutually agreed departure was confirmed earlier this month. Morkel, who has served as JSK’s assistant coach since the inaugural SA20 season in 2022-23, steps up to lead the side into the next edition of the competition.

In an official statement, the franchise said: “Joburg Super Kings announce the appointment of Albie Morkel as the team’s Head Coach. A valued member of the Super Kings family, Albie brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the team’s culture. We look forward to this exciting new chapter under his leadership. Welcome, Coach!”

Fleming earlier left his role as the CSK head coach and the role for its sister teams as the former New Zealand captain is appointed as England head coach.

Morkel enjoyed a successful playing career with Chennai Super Kings in the IPL between 2008 and 2013, contributing to back-to-back title wins in 2010 and 2011. Known for his powerful lower-order hitting and useful medium-pace bowling, he remains one of the franchise’s popular figures and ranks among CSK’s all-time leading wicket-takers.

After retiring from professional cricket, the former Proteas all-rounder transitioned into coaching. He has been part of the Super Kings setup across their global franchises and has also worked as a specialist coaching consultant with the South African national team. Albie’s brother Morne Morkel continues to hone his role as the bowling coach of the Indian team.

The appointment is seen as a seamless continuation of the Super Kings culture at JSK, which is owned by Chennai Super Kings Cricket Limited and plays its home matches at the Wanderers Stadium. Morkel will now lead preparations for the upcoming SA20 season, working alongside the existing support staff and captain Faf du Plessis.