Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Zaheer Khan has revealed the appointment of a new assistant coach in a very unusual manner. Former South Africa and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) all-rounder Albie Morkel will assist Zaheer in the CSK support staff coming into IPL 2027.

Morkel’s appointment announcement had a connection to his exploits with the bat in the IPL, especially against Virat Kohli in an IPL 2012 game between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Zaheer Khan featured in a video posted by CSK on social media, where he interacts with mascot Leo, who is seen asking for updates on the next coach. Zaheer asks him to wait for some time and is seen connecting to someone on the computer.

The IP address on the laptop screen is shown as 464.626, and the location is shown as South Africa. This was a reference to the IPL 2012 game where Albie Morkel hammered 4, 6, 4, 6, 2, and 6 in an over bowled by Virat Kohli, taking 28 runs and winning CSK the game from the jaws of defeat.  

Later, CSK confirmed on their social media, welcoming Albie Morkel to the fold as the assistant coach ahead of IPL 2027. Notably, Morkel was recently named the head coach of CSK’s sister franchise in SA20, the Jo’burg Super Kings.

“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!” CSK posted on social media.  

Morkel represented the franchise from the inaugural IPL season in 2008 until 2013, scoring 827 runs and picking up 76 wickets in 78 games for CSK. He also played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Capitals (DC), and Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS).