Morne Morkel to join India's coaching staff before Bangladesh series

Former South African pacer Morne Morkel is set to join Team India as their new bowling coach next month, amid ongoing speculation since Paras Mhambrey's departure following the T20 World Cup. 

Morkel will be part of the Indian dressing room when India faces Bangladesh in a two-Test series.

Morkel's appointment will see him collaborating with head coach Gautam Gambhir, who recently led India to a commanding T20I series win over Sri Lanka.
 
Initially, reports suggested that Morkel would join the Indian camp for the Sri Lanka tour, but he had to return home due to his father's health issues.

Currently, Sairaj Bahutule is serving as the bowling coach in Sri Lanka, a decision influenced by the spin-friendly pitches in the region. It remains unclear if Bahutule will retain his position after Morkel's arrival, considering Morkel's expertise in fast bowling rather than spin. 

With five of India's Tests in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle set to be played in home conditions, the team's management faces a critical decision on whether to continue with Bahutule or transition to Morkel.

If Bahutule remains, the coaching staff will include head coach Gambhir, assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, bowling coach Morkel, fielding coach T Dilip, and a spin bowling coach. This totals six coaches, raising concerns about the size and efficiency of the coaching team.

Morkel's coaching experience includes a stint with the Pakistan men's team as their fast bowling coach during last year's ODI World Cup and a role with the Lucknow Super Giants in the 2024 Indian Premier League.

The Gambhir-Suryakumar Yadav duo made a strong start to their respective roles, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series against Sri Lanka. 

In a rain-affected second T20I, India chased down a reduced 78-run target in just 6.3 overs, showcasing their dominance.