The franchise confirmed Donald’s appointment on Tuesday, with the former South African fast bowler joining head coach Albie Morkel’s management team.

Morkel took over from Stephen Fleming after the 2026 campaign, and Donald’s arrival adds considerable international and franchise coaching experience to the new setup.

Donald replaces Eric Simons as bowling coach. JSK have also appointed Pierre de Bruyn as fielding coach and Evan Speechly as physiotherapist as they prepare for the competition’s fifth season.

One of South Africa’s finest fast bowlers, Donald finished his international career with 330 Test wickets at an average of 22.25 and 272 ODI wickets at 21.78.

Known as ‘White Lightning’, he played a central role in establishing the Proteas as a force following their return to international cricket. He was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2019.

His coaching career has included spells with England, New Zealand and South Africa. He joined Gary Kirsten’s Proteas coaching staff in 2011 and remained in the role until the 2015 World Cup.

Donald has also worked in county cricket with Warwickshire and Kent, while his IPL experience includes roles with Royal Challengers Bangalore and Pune Warriors India.

His appointment follows changes to JSK’s playing squad at this month’s auction. Faf du Plessis was bought back for R2.7-million, while the franchise secured Jason Rowles for R2.9-million and added West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard.

Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani, all-rounder Dayyaan Galiem and wicketkeeper-batsman Andries Gous were also among their acquisitions.

Donald and Morkel will be tasked with helping JSK secure their first SA20 title. The Johannesburg franchise has yet to reach the final.

The 2027 tournament begins on 17 January, with defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape facing Pretoria Capitals at St George’s Park. Newlands will host the final on 21 February.

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