“Wonderful to be in this environment…”: Morne Morkel on Coaching Team India

Former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel has officially joined the Indian cricket team as the new bowling coach, and he has already been impressed by the professionalism and skill of the Indian pacers. Morkel’s first day with the squad took place on Friday as the team prepared for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, which will begin on September 19 in Chennai. This will mark India’s return to Test cricket after a month-long break, following their dominant 4-1 victory over England earlier this year.

Morne Morkel expressed his excitement about joining the Indian team, stating that he has always played against India and followed their progress even after his retirement. He shared his admiration for the team’s environment and professionalism, and is eager to observe how the players operate up close.

Morne Morkel talks about Team India

Morne Morkel said, “I have always played against India and followed India after my playing days. Wonderful to be in this environment and see how the guys operate”.

Morkel’s arrival comes just ahead of the two-match Test series against Bangladesh, where he will be working with India’s established pace duo, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, along with two newer faces, Akash Deep and Yash Dayal. Morkel, who was absent from India’s recent tour of Sri Lanka due to personal reasons, was quick to praise the Indian bowlers, stating that their approach left him amazed.

“I was blown away by how they went about their things and how professional they were,” Morkel said in an interaction after his first training session with the team. “It’s a good sign, and hopefully, we can build on that as we head into the series.”

Focus on Building Relationships

Despite his awe at the professionalism of the Indian bowlers, Morkel emphasized that his primary focus on the first day was to develop a rapport with the players. The former Proteas quick, who played against several members of the current Indian squad during his playing career, underscored the importance of healthy relationships and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the bowlers under his guidance.

“For me, it’s just important to connect well with the guys. I’ve played with and against some of these players, watched them in the IPL. To be in a camp and form relationships with them is very important,” said Morkel. “Today was just about that — to get an understanding of the guys, find out their strengths and weaknesses, and setting goals for the upcoming series.”

Morkel brings a wealth of experience from his playing days, where he established himself as one of South Africa’s premier fast bowlers. His ability to deliver match-winning spells, particularly in hostile conditions, made him a formidable opponent. Now in a coaching capacity, Morkel is eager to share his knowledge and insights with India’s pace attack as they prepare for a busy season that includes a home Test series against Bangladesh and a three-Test series against New Zealand before heading to Australia for the coveted Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

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Building a Potent Pace Attack

For the Bangladesh series, India’s selectors have opted to bring in two uncapped pacers alongside Bumrah and Siraj. Akash Deep and Yash Dayal, who were rewarded for their impressive performances in the Duleep Trophy, add depth to the squad. Dayal, the sole left-arm seamer, will be particularly eager to make his mark after earning his first call-up to the national side.

Under Morkel’s guidance, India’s fast bowlers will be looking to maintain their recent success in the longest format of the game. Bumrah, who is widely regarded as one of the best fast bowlers in world cricket, will once again lead the attack. Alongside him, Mohammed Siraj has continued to rise in stature, having made significant strides in both red and white-ball cricket.

As India returns to the Test arena, Morkel’s experience and insight into fast bowling will be crucial in shaping the team’s approach. His presence is expected to further enhance India’s already potent pace attack, which has been pivotal to their success in recent years, particularly in challenging overseas conditions.

India’s Busy Test Schedule

The series against Bangladesh represents India’s first Test assignment since March earlier this year. Following the conclusion of the two Tests, India will host New Zealand in a three-match series before embarking on a high-profile tour of Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The tour to Australia will be especially crucial, as India will look to defend their title and maintain their dominance in Test cricket on foreign soil.

For now, however, the focus remains on the upcoming Bangladesh Tests, and with Morkel’s expertise now added to the mix, India will be confident of continuing their fine form in the longest format.

With the first Test set to begin in Chennai on September 19, all eyes will be on Morkel’s impact and how India’s pace attack performs under his watchful guidance. The transition into his new role appears to have started on the right note, and fans will be eager to see how India’s bowlers build on the early momentum as they head into the crucial Test series.

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