SA20 franchise JKS welcomes Elby Morake as head coach ahead of 2027 season

Johannesburg Super Kings, the South African franchise linked to the IPL’s Chennai Super Kings, have brought former national player Elby Morake aboard as head coach for the 2027 SA20 season. The move follows Stephen Fleming’s exit to assume the England Test coaching job.

Morake, a seasoned all‑rounder, earned 58 One‑Day caps, 50 T20 caps and a solitary Test for South Africa between 2004 and 2015. His experience extends to the IPL, where he once wore the Super Kings jersey, and to several other high‑profile leagues.

In the official announcement, Morake expressed his gratitude, stating that leading the Super Kings from a coaching bench is a special journey that began when he first donned the team’s colors as a player. He added that he is eager to build on the strong foundation set by the franchise.

Owner Rupa Gurunath commended Morake’s long‑term involvement with the coaching group, stressing his deep connection to the Super Kings ethos and his instrumental behind‑the‑scenes work in player development. K.S. Vishwanathan, the director, emphasized Morake’s dual perspective as both former player and coach, noting that his leadership and insight into South African cricket will inspire confidence.

The SA20’s fifth edition is set to begin on 17 January 2027, with the Johannesburg Super Kings commencing their campaign on 18 January. The team, which has yet to make a final in its four‑year history, now aims to break that barrier under Morake’s guidance.