Morne Morkel: India’s New Bowling Coach. A New Era for Indian Fast Bowling?
Former South African speedster Morne Morkel has officially been appointed as the bowling coach of the Indian cricket team. This significant development marks a new chapter for Indian fast bowling, with the lanky pacer set to impart his wealth of experience to the next generation of Indian bowlers.
The Morkel Era Begins
Morkel’s coaching career has been on an upward trajectory. After successful stints with the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL and the Durban Super Giants in the SA20, he was appointed as the bowling coach of the Pakistan cricket team. Now, he takes on the challenging yet rewarding role of guiding India’s pace attack.
First Assignment: Bangladesh Series
Morkel’s tenure with the Indian team will commence with the home Test series against Bangladesh, scheduled to begin on September 19. This presents an immediate opportunity for him to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the Indian pace bowlers and implement his coaching philosophy.
A Strong Partnership with Gautam Gambhir
Morkel’s appointment comes on the heels of Gautam Gambhir taking over as the head coach of the Indian team. The duo have previously worked together at the Lucknow Super Giants, forging a successful partnership. Their combined experience and knowledge of the game are expected to elevate the Indian team to new heights.
Expectations and Challenges
As the new bowling coach, Morkel will be expected to address several key areas:
- Identifying and nurturing talent: India has a rich pool of fast bowling talent. Morkel’s role will be to identify promising bowlers and guide their development.
- Improving consistency: Indian pacers have often been criticized for inconsistency. Morkel will be tasked with helping them develop a more consistent approach.
- Adapting to different conditions: India plays cricket in diverse conditions, ranging from flat pitches to seaming tracks. Morkel will need to help bowlers adapt to these varying challenges.
While the challenges are immense, Morkel’s proven track record as a bowler and coach suggests that he is well-equipped to handle the role. His appointment is undoubtedly a positive step for Indian cricket, and fans eagerly await the impact he will make on the team.
DISCLAIMER: This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.
