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Morne Morkel, a former South African fast bowler, has been appointed as the Indian men's team's new bowling coach, a role he officially assumed on September 1st. Morkel's appointment is a significant milestone in his coaching career, marking a transition from the playing field to the mentorship of international athletes. His first assignment with the Indian team will be the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh, starting on September 19th in Chennai. This series holds crucial importance within the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, with India currently topping the standings and Bangladesh holding the fourth position after a triumphant 2-0 series win in Pakistan.
Upon receiving the news of his appointment, Morkel shared a heartwarming anecdote about his initial reaction. He revealed in a video released by the BCCI that he first called his father, not his wife, to share the exciting news. This decision was driven by the significance of the moment, stemming from Morkel's lifelong passion for cricket and the realization of a dream he had shared with his father. His emotional response underscores the deep connection between his love for the sport and his familial bond.
Morkel's appointment brings a new dynamic to the Indian team. His impressive 12-year career with South Africa, featuring 247 international matches and a total of 544 wickets, provides invaluable experience and insights that he can now impart to the Indian bowlers. The appointment also marks a reunion for Morkel and Gautam Gambhir, who were teammates at the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during three IPL seasons. Their shared history, combined with their recent collaboration on the coaching staff of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the 2022 and 2023 IPL seasons, sets a strong foundation for their teamwork in the Indian team. Morkel emphasizes the importance of establishing strong relationships within the team, recognizing the crucial role they play in fostering a supportive and cohesive environment.
Morkel's coaching journey has taken him across international boundaries. He has also worked with Pakistan during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he closely collaborated with captain Babar Azam. While his departure from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) came earlier than expected, his swift transition to the Indian team showcases his dedication and adaptability. Morkel's expertise and experience will undoubtedly be valuable assets to the Indian team as they navigate the upcoming Test series and future challenges within the World Test Championship.