Morne Morkel is a strong contender for India’s bowling coach position. The former South African pacer, known for his extensive coaching experience, has caught the eye of Gautam Gambhir, the newly appointed head coach of the Indian team. Morkel previously coached the Pakistan team during last year’s ODI World Cup in India but left the role months before his contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) ended, reports Live Cricket Score.
Gambhir has reportedly asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to consider Morkel for the role. Morkel, who played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is between 2006 and 2018, is in discussions with the BCCI. The South African, now settled in Australia, shares a good working relationship with Gambhir from their time at the Lucknow Super Giants IPL team. Gambhir served as a mentor for two years, while Morkel continued as the franchise’s bowling coach under new head coach Justin Langer after Gambhir moved to the Kolkata Knight Riders and head coach Andy Flower joined the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
At 39, Morkel has built a solid reputation internationally and in the IPL as an effective coach. Having retired only in 2018, he is well-versed in the latest techniques of the game. Gambhir, known for collaborating with trusted colleagues, is eager to include Morkel in his coaching team.
Several other names have been linked to the bowling coach position, including Lakshmipathy Balaji and Vinay Kumar. Reports also suggest that the BCCI is considering Zaheer Khan for the role. While no final decision has been made, it is expected that the BCCI will conclude soon. One factor under consideration is Morkel’s young family and the extensive travel the Indian job entails. Morkel resides in the upscale Seaforth suburb in northern Sydney with his wife, Roz Kelly, a sports presenter on Channel 9, and their two children.
If appointed, Morkel would succeed Paras Mhambrey, who has excelled in the role for the past three years under head coach Rahul Dravid. Additionally, Gambhir has recommended Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, while the BCCI is reportedly keen on retaining fielding coach T Dilip from the outgoing Dravid regime.
