The Dolphins’ Grant Morgan has been named head coach of the Durban Heat, ahead of the inaugural Mzansi Super League.

Batsman Hashim Amla, meanwhile, has been confirmed as the Heat’s marquee player for the six-team tournament.

‘We’re excited to have Hashim returning to KwaZulu-Natal to represent the Durban Heat,’ said KwaZulu-Natal Cricket Union chief executive officer Heinrich Strydom.

‘He brings with him a wealth of experience, both at the highest level as well as at Kingsmead, so he has a huge amount of knowledge to share.

‘He is one of the most loved cricketers in the country and I am sure that having a player like him in our squad will be a hit with the crowds.’

Morgan will be accompanied by assistant coach Imraan Khan, team manager Anderson Ndovela, physiotherapist Nick Moffit, trainer Gavin Muir and analyst Adhishwar Pillai.

‘It is great that we can keep our back-room team together for this tournament. They have proved that they are a strong unit, understand how to win T20 matches and come in to the tournament with a proven track record,’ added Strydom.

The player draft will happen on Wednesday, when England’s Jason Roy and West Indians Chris Gayle and Dwayne Bravo will be among several international stars available for selection.

Gayle and Bravo have represented the Dolphins previously, while Roy was born in Durban.

‘We are looking forward to see what sort of squad we put together at the draft later this week,’ concluded Strydom.

The tournament will start on 16 November and end on 16 December 2018.

Image: Gallo