Morne Morkel, a former South African speed wonder and Team India’s recently appointed bowling coach, has joined the team in advance of their forthcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh.
Morne Morkel, the former South African pace sensation and Team India’s recently hired bowling coach, has joined the team in advance of their forthcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, which is scheduled to start in Chennai on September 19.
The newly hired Morkel attended the first practice session on Friday, September 13, indicating that the Indian squad has already started getting ready for the first Test. Gautam Gambhir made his debut as India’s head coach during their recent tour of Sri Lanka, however, Morkel was not there because he had to return home for family matters.
On Thursday evening, the Indian cricket team, captained by Rohit Sharma, arrived. Prominent athletes including KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, and Jasprit Bumrah were observed entering the team vehicle at the airport. Notably, Virat Kohli arrived separately, flying straight from London at 4 AM to join the team.
Morne Morkel took the place of Paras Mhambrey
The recruitment of Morkel is part of a larger coaching staff reorganization for India following the conclusion of Rahul Dravid’s fruitful tenure. Under Gambhir’s direction, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also hired Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, assembling a strong supporting group. With a plethora of international experience, Morkel takes over for Paras Mhambrey in the vital position of bowling coach.
With 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is under his belt for the Proteas, the 39-year-old’s record is remarkable. His seventy IPL games played with teams like Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Rajasthan Royals have given him a great deal of experience with Indian conditions, which greatly enhances his role.
During the 2023 ODI World Cup, he was Pakistan’s bowling coach; however, his time there was cut short. In addition, he has coached the women’s team from New Zealand, Namibia, and the Durban Super Giants.
The bond between Morkel and Gambhir extends beyond their recent appointments to the Indian team. Previously, Morkel played under the southpaw for KKR, and they were coworkers at the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League.
