Before the two-match Test series against Bangladesh in Chennai on September 19, Team India’s new bowling coach, former South African pacer Morne Morkel, has joined the squad.
The newly appointed Morkel attended the first practice session on Friday, 13 September, to prepare for the first Test. Morkel flew home for family reasons before India’s recent trip of Sri Lanka, Gautam Gambhir’s first as head coach.
The countdown starts as #TeamIndia begin their preps for an exciting home season.#INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/VlIvau5AfD
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 13, 2024
On Thursday night, captain Rohit Sharma led the Indian cricket squad. Star players Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, and KL Rahul boarded the airport team bus. Virat Kohli flew in from London at 4 AM to join the team.
Mhambrey was succeeded by Morne Morkel
The recruitment of Morkel is part of a larger reorganisation of India’s coaching staff after Rahul Dravid’s success. The BCCI hired Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, giving Gambhir a strong support squad. Morkel replaces Paras Mhambrey as bowling coach, adding international experience.
His 39-year-old Proteas record is excellent, with 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is. His 70 IPL matches with Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders provide him valuable experience in Indian conditions.
He was Pakistan’s bowling coach for the 2023 ODI World Cup, although it ended early. Namibia, Durban Super Giants, and New Zealand women’s team are among his coaching credits.
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Gambhir and Morkel’s relationship goes beyond their new Indian team duties. Morkel played under the southpaw for KKR and Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL.
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