Albie Morkel has been appointed as the new head coach of Joburg Super Kings ahead of the fifth season of SA20. The former South African all-rounder is stepping in after Stephen Fleming resigned after four seasons in charge of the franchise.
Morkel has been a close associated of the Super Kings outfit for a number of years, having been a player for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL before joining the Joburg Super Kings coaching staff for the first season of the SA20. Much of his appointment was due to his understanding of the culture and players of the franchise.
Morkel takes over from Fleming
Fleming took Joburg Super Kings through the first four seasons of SA20, before deciding to leave the head coach role. It will now be Morkel’s job to build on the foundations laid by the previous New Zealand captain.
Super Kings owner said he had built good relationships with players and staff, while extolling Morkel’s contribution to the franchise. The management also feels that his South African cricket experience will help the team to move forward under his leadership.
Former all-rounder begins new challenge
Morkel said he was lucky to be appointed as head coach of Joburg Super Kings and that he had been through a special journey as he went from being a player to head coach in the same organisation. Now he has to do everything to help the franchise compete for its first SA20 title.
The new coach will also try to make the most of a team that has been competitive but hasn’t made it to the final. Morkel’s experience with the players and how the franchise works could help provide continuity as the team gets ready for the next season.
Joburg Super Kings look to improve
Joburg Super Kings were beaten in the Eliminator but were fourth in the SA20 league stage earlier this year. The side left their campaign without a spot in the final and showed they need to go further in the knockout stages.
With Morkel joining the team, it gives the franchise a fresh voice with someone who has been around since the start. Now it will be all about getting ready for the fifth SA20 season and setting up a team to go for the championship.
