The Gambhir Factor: How was Morne Morkel Chosen as Team India’s Bowling Coach? 

Former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel has been officially appointed as the bowling coach of the Indian cricket team. This significant decision, confirmed by BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, highlights the influence of head coach Gautam Gambhir, who strongly endorsed Morkel for the role.

The Selection Process

Morkel’s appointment comes after a thorough selection process where he emerged as the frontrunner, surpassing notable candidates like Lakshmipathy Balaji and Vinay Kumar. According to BCCI sources, Gambhir’s recommendation was pivotal. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) was tasked with interviewing candidates for the head coach position, but Gambhir’s preference for Morkel as his bowling coach was paramount. A BCCI source stated, “When it came to the choice of support staff, it was imperative that Gambhir’s choice prevailed. He has worked with Morne and thinks of him highly as a bowling coach”.

Morkel, 39, boasts an impressive cricketing resume, having played 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is for South Africa, where he took a total of 544 international wickets. His extensive experience as a player, combined with successful coaching stints—including his recent role with the Pakistan team—positions him as a strong candidate for the Indian setup. Morkel’s familiarity with Indian conditions, gained through his time in the IPL, further enhances his suitability for the role.

The Gambhir Connection

The relationship between Morkel and Gambhir dates back to their time together at Kolkata Knight Riders, where they played alongside each other. Their collaboration continued at the Lucknow Super Giants, where Morkel served as the bowling coach during Gambhir’s mentorship. This established rapport and mutual respect played a crucial role in Morkel’s selection as Gambhir’s preferred choice for the bowling coach position.

As head coach, Gambhir had a clear vision for his support staff, and he strongly endorsed Morkel, having previously worked with him at Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. This established relationship and mutual respect were crucial factors in Morkel’s selection over other candidates, such as Lakshmipathy Balaji and R Vinay Kumar. 

Despite Gambhir’s strong recommendation, the BCCI has shown a tendency to maintain control over the final decisions regarding the coaching staff. Reports indicate that several of Gambhir’s other recommendations for support staff were rejected by the board, reflecting a shift in decision-making power within the organization. This suggests that while Gambhir’s input was valued, the BCCI retained the ultimate authority to approve or deny his suggestions.

Immediate Challenges Ahead

Morkel’s first assignment will be the two-match home Test series against Bangladesh, starting September 19, 2024. However, the real test will come when India embarks on a challenging tour of Australia later in the year. Morkel’s primary challenge will be to manage the transition of key bowlers like Mohammed Shami, who is nearing the end of his career, and to provide robust support for Jasprit Bumrah as the team prepares for a demanding schedule.

As Morkel steps into his new role, he will report to Bengaluru’s National Cricket Academy to collaborate with VVS Laxman and Troy Cooley, the head of bowling at the NCA. His experience and insights will be crucial as India aims to build a strong fast bowling unit, particularly with a packed schedule that includes a five-Test series in Australia and a potential six-match tour of England next year.

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