Aakash Chopra, the former India cricketer, has recently commented on the potential appointment of Morne Morkel as India’s new bowling coach. Chopra highlighted Morkel’s extensive coaching experience, suggesting it could significantly benefit the Indian team in overseas conditions. Various reports indicate that Morkel is currently the leading candidate for the role. If his appointment is confirmed, he is expected to join the Indian squad for their upcoming series against Bangladesh. This move could bring a fresh perspective and valuable expertise to India’s bowling setup as they prepare for their next international challenge.
Aakash Chopra breaks silence on Morne Morkel’s potential appointment as India’s bowling coach
In a recent Q&A session on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra discussed the potential impact of Morne Morkel as India’s bowling coach. Chopra noted that Morkel, now settled in Australia, is well-acquainted with conditions in both Australia and South Africa. He suggested that Morkel’s familiarity with these environments could be advantageous for India in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and the ODI World Cup 2027, which will be hosted in South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.
“Morne Morkel is a good guy. I know him well. He is very man of calm nature. Usually, fast bowlers are not so quiet, but he is. He is good and I like him. The reports from Lucknow (Super Giants) suggest that he does a good job as a coach. Actually, he has settled in Australia, so he understands Australian and South African conditions very well,” Chopra said.
Morne Morkel records in international cricket
Morne Morkel is renowned for his extensive experience in Test cricket, particularly in his native South Africa. Throughout his career, Morkel established himself as one of the leading bowlers for the South African team. He secured a total of 309 wickets in 86 Test matches, achieving an impressive average of 27.66. His success wasn’t limited to Test cricket; Morkel also excelled in One Day Internationals. In ODIs, he took 288 wickets across 117 matches, with a commendable average of 25.32.
Following his retirement from international cricket, Morkel made a significant move by settling in Australia. He has since been active in the Big Bash League, where he has played as a local player. This transition has allowed him to gain valuable insights into Australian playing conditions, enhancing his understanding of different cricketing environments. His experience in both South African and Australian conditions positions him well to offer a unique perspective on bowling strategies and techniques. Morkel’s dual expertise in these contrasting conditions could prove to be a significant asset if he takes on a coaching role, particularly in preparing teams for diverse international challenges.
“I really hope that he (Morne Morkel) adds a little more to it” – Aakash Chopra
The former India opener added that Indian bowling has drastically improved over the past few years and hoped that it keeps improving in Morne Morkel’s tenure.
“I really hope that he adds a little more to it because there has been some good work done so far. The level of Indian bowling has gone quite high and I hope it continues forever. Morne Morkel, wish you all the very best,” Chopra added.
India’s current head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has recommended Morne Morkel for the position of bowling coach. Morkel and Gambhir have a history of collaboration, having worked together with the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL when Gambhir was captain. Their professional relationship extends beyond the IPL; Gambhir was the mentor for Lucknow Super Giants, where Morkel served as the bowling coach.
Additionally, Morne Morkel has previously been the bowling coach for Pakistan. However, he stepped down from this role after Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in the ODI World Cup 2023, which took place in India.
