Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have added former South Africa all-rounder Albie Morkel, ex-India pacer Mohit Sharma and former England spinner Gareth Batty to their coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027. The appointments come as the five-time champions continue to reshape their backroom team following a major change at the top.

CSK confirmed the appointments through separate posts on social media on Tuesday. The three coaches will work under former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan, who has taken over as head coach after Stephen Fleming’s departure.

Morkel and Mohit have both represented CSK during their playing careers, while Batty joins the franchise with considerable coaching experience in English domestic cricket.

Albie Morkel Returns To CSK In New Role

Morkel is no stranger to the Chennai franchise. He was part of the CSK squad from the inaugural IPL season in 2008 until 2013 and played a key role in the team’s title-winning campaigns in 2010 and 2011.

During his time with CSK, the former South Africa all-rounder scored 827 runs and picked up 76 wickets in 78 matches. He later represented Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Capitals and Rising Pune Supergiant in the IPL.

CSK welcomed Morkel back with a special message on X, recalling his contribution to the team’s early success.

“The lion behind some of Chepauk’s most unforgettable moments is ready for a new innings! An OG Super King from 2008, a key member of our back-to-back IPL triumphs in 2010 and 2011! Albie Morkel’s story with the Super Kings continues! Welcome aboard, Albie!” the franchise posted.

Morkel has also been associated with Joburg Super Kings in South Africa’s SA20 league, which is owned by the same group as CSK. He was recently appointed head coach of the franchise following Fleming’s exit.

Recommended For You

Mohit Sharma Returns To CSK As Bowling Coach

Mohit Sharma is another familiar face returning to the Chennai camp. The former India pacer played for CSK between 2013 and 2019, taking 58 wickets in 48 matches. He also represented the franchise in the Champions League T20.

Mohit went on to play for Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans in the IPL.

His most notable recent campaign came with Gujarat Titans in 2023. He finished as the team’s second-highest wicket-taker that season and helped them reach the final, where they lost to CSK.

Mohit retired from all forms of cricket in December 2025. He will now take up coaching responsibilities with the franchise where he enjoyed an important part of his playing career.

Announcing his appointment, CSK highlighted his slower deliveries and variations, along with his connection to the team.

“Once a Super King. Now ready to shape the next generation! From his IPL debut in Yellow in 2013 to winning the Purple Cap in 2014, Mohit Sharma has given us plenty of reasons to whistle with his masterful slower deliveries and variations! Welcome home, Mohit!” CSK wrote on X.

Gareth Batty Joins CSK After Successful Coaching Stint With Surrey

Former England off-spinner Gareth Batty is the third addition to CSK’s coaching team. Batty has built a strong coaching record in English domestic cricket, having been part of Surrey’s set-up since 2021.

Under his guidance, Surrey won three consecutive County Championship titles before finishing second last season.

Batty also served as assistant coach of Oval Invincibles in the men’s Hundred in 2025 before taking up a role with MI London this year.

CSK welcomed him to the franchise, highlighting his leadership and experience in developing players.

“Three consecutive County Championship titles. A proven leader! Former England international Gareth Batty brings his wealth of experience, tactical expertise, and passion for developing talent to the Super Kings! Welcome to the Den, Gareth Batty!” the franchise posted on X.

CSK Undergo Major Coaching Reshuffle Ahead Of IPL 2027

The three appointments are part of a wider overhaul of CSK’s coaching staff. Zaheer Khan was brought in as head coach after the franchise parted ways with Fleming, who had been in charge from 2009 to 2026.

Fleming’s departure came after he was appointed England’s men’s Test head coach, replacing Brendon McCullum in the role. He has also brought former CSK staff members Eric Simmons and James Foster into his England set-up.

CSK have also parted ways with long-serving batting coach Michael Hussey and bowling coach Eric Simmons. Strength and conditioning coach Greg King and physiotherapist Tommy Simsek have also left the franchise.

Meanwhile, assistant bowling coach Sridharan Sriram and fielding coach James Foster were listed among those continuing from the previous season in the announced staff structure, alongside senior official AR Srikanth. Foster’s role with England means his responsibilities across the two set-ups should be clarified by the respective teams.

CSK managing director Kasi Viswanathan had earlier indicated that Zaheer would have the freedom to select his own coaching staff.

With Morkel, Mohit and Batty now on board, CSK are building a new support team as they prepare for IPL 2027, with several familiar faces from the franchise’s successful past taking up roles in the next phase of its journey.


Also In News