No Zaheer and Vinay, Gautam Gambhir Wants This Former SA Pacer in his Coaching Staff as Bowling Coach

Former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel is now a contender for India’s next head coach position as reported by Cricbuzz.  Previously, it was reported that Gautam Gambhir favored Vinay Kumar as bowling coach, while the BCCI preferred Zaheer Khan. However, Morkel has recently been considered for the role as well.

Who is Morne Morkel?

Morne Morkel, a former South African cricketer with extensive experience, has transitioned into coaching since retiring from playing in 2018. He notably served as Pakistan’s bowling coach during the 2023 ODI World Cup. In the IPL, he collaborated with Gautam Gambhir at Lucknow Super Giants.

Gautam Gambhir wants Morne Morkel as India’s bowling coach. (Cricbuzz). pic.twitter.com/mja5qnKJyj

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) July 12, 2024

Gambhir, now India’s head coach, is eager to bring Morkel aboard as the bowling coach. Currently residing in Australia with his family, Morkel is open to considering this opportunity. The BCCI is also exploring options like Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate for the role.

Here are some key points about Morne Morkel:

• He played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is for South Africa.
• After retiring, he pursued coaching and was Pakistan’s bowling coach during the 2023 ODI World Cup.
• He collaborated with Gautam Gambhir at the IPL’s Lucknow Super Giants.
• Gambhir, now India’s head coach, is interested in bringing Morkel onto the Indian team as the bowling coach.
• Morkel currently resides in Australia but is willing to consider the role if offered.
• The BCCI is also considering other candidates like Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate for the position.
• The potential appointment of Morkel as India’s bowling coach would significantly benefit the team, given his esteemed coaching abilities and extensive international cricket experience.

After Gambhir moved to the Kolkata Knight Riders, Morkel continued as bowling coach under new head coach Justin Langer at Lucknow. Morkel has earned a reputation as an effective coach in both international cricket and the IPL. Despite retiring in 2018 at the age of 39, he remains well-versed in the latest cricket techniques.

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