BCCI Appoints Morne Morkel as India’s New Bowling Coach Ahead of Bangladesh Series

Former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel has been appointed as the bowling coach for the senior Indian men’s cricket team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Morkel’s contract will officially begin on September 1, 2024. His first assignment will be the home series against Bangladesh, starting with a Test match in Chennai on September 19.

Morkel, 39, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously worked with the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) under the mentorship of Gautam Gambhir, who is now the head coach of the Indian team. The strong professional relationship between Gambhir and Morkel played a significant role in Morkel’s appointment, with Gambhir reportedly recommending him to the BCCI.

Morkel was initially set to join the Indian team on their recent tour of Sri Lanka but had to miss out due to personal reasons. In his absence, Sairaj Bahutule served as the interim bowling coach. Morkel’s appointment marks a crucial addition to India’s coaching staff, which already includes Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate as assistant coaches, and T Dilip as the fielding coach, continuing from the previous coaching regime under Rahul Dravid.

Morkel’s recent coaching experience includes a stint as the bowling coach for Pakistan during the ODI World Cup in India last year. However, he resigned from that role before his contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) was set to expire.

As India prepares for an important home series and upcoming international assignments, Morkel’s expertise is expected to bolster the team’s bowling unit, especially under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir.

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