Morne Morkel in Contention for India's Bowling Coach Role

Gambhir Recommends Morkel for BCCI Consideration

Morne Morkel, the former South African fast bowler, is being considered for the role of India's bowling coach. The newly appointed head coach of the Indian team, Gautam Gambhir, has put forward Morkel’s name to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Morkel brings extensive coaching experience, having previously coached the Pakistan team during the ODI World Cup in India last year, before stepping down prior to the end of his contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

According to a report by Cricbuzz, Gambhir has specifically requested the BCCI to consider Morkel for the role. Morkel's cricketing career includes 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is played between 2006 and 2018. Currently residing in Australia, Morkel has been in talks with the BCCI regarding the position.

Gambhir and Morkel share a strong professional relationship from their time together with the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, where Gambhir was a mentor and Morkel served as the bowling coach. Morkel continued as the franchise’s bowling coach under head coach Justin Langer after Gambhir moved to the Kolkata Knight Riders and head coach Andy Flower transitioned to the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Morkel, at 39, is well-regarded for his coaching skills in both international cricket and the IPL. Having retired in 2018, he remains up-to-date with the latest techniques of the game. Gambhir is known for his preference to work with familiar individuals, and he is reportedly keen on adding Morkel to his coaching team.

Other candidates for the bowling coach position include Lakshmipathy Balaji, Vinay Kumar, and Zaheer Khan. While no final decision has been made yet, the BCCI is expected to reach a conclusion soon. Considerations include Morkel’s young family and the extensive travel the job would require. Morkel lives in the upscale Seaforth suburb of northern Sydney with his wife, Channel 9 sports presenter Rose Kelly, and their two children.

If appointed, Morkel would replace Paras Mhambrey, who has performed admirably in the role under head coach Rahul Dravid over the past three years.