Morne Morkel in Contention for India’s Bowling Coach Role
Morne Morkel is emerging as a leading candidate for the position of bowling coach for the Indian cricket team. The former South African pacer, known for his extensive coaching experience, is highly favored by Gautam Gambhir, the newly appointed head coach of India. Morkel previously served as the bowling coach for the Pakistan team during the ODI World Cup in India last year but stepped down before his contract ended.
Gambhir has reportedly urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider Morkel for this crucial role. Having played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is from 2006 to 2018, Morkel brings a wealth of experience to the table. Initial discussions between the BCCI and Morkel have already taken place, as he currently resides in Australia.
The duo shares a strong working relationship, having collaborated at the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, where Gambhir was a mentor for two years. Morkel remained with the franchise as the bowling coach even after Gambhir’s departure to the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Morkel’s reputation as an effective coach extends both internationally and within the IPL circuit. At just 39 years old and having retired in 2018, he is well-acquainted with modern techniques in the game. Gambhir’s preference for working with individuals he trusts makes Morkel an ideal candidate for his coaching staff.
Other names have also surfaced in connection with the bowling coach position, including Lakshmipathy Balaji and Vinay Kumar, while Zaheer Khan has also been mentioned as a potential option. Despite the growing list of candidates, a final decision from the BCCI is expected soon.
One important consideration is Morkel’s young family, as the extensive travel required for the role could pose challenges. He lives in Seaforth, northern Sydney, with his wife, Roz Kelly, a sports presenter, and their two children.
If Morkel is appointed, he would replace Paras Mhambrey, who has successfully held the position for the past three years under Rahul Dravid’s coaching regime. Alongside Morkel, Gambhir has recommended Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate for roles within the support staff. Additionally, the BCCI is inclined to retain fielding coach T Dilip from the outgoing coaching setup.
As the BCCI deliberates on its final choices, the cricket community eagerly anticipates the shaping of India’s coaching team under Gambhir’s leadership.
