South African fast bowling legend Morne Morkel, now the new bowling coach for Team India, is ready to bring his expertise to one of the most dynamic cricket teams in the world. After having lived in India for a significant time and being a part of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Morkel feels well-prepared to make a meaningful impact. The former pacer has already started working closely with players, and his primary focus will be on improving small aspects of the system that is already performing at a high level.
Indian Cricket’s Self-Driven System: Morkel’s Approach
Morkel, who was also part of the Lucknow Super Giants support staff alongside Gautam Gambhir, recognizes how the Indian cricket system operates. He shared his thoughts with BCCI TV, saying, “The Indian cricket system is self-driven. I aim to keep it safe and improve it in small ways.” He understands the well-established routines and professionalism within Indian cricket and aims to add value through subtle but effective tweaks.
The Role of Senior Players in Leading the Team
Morkel is well aware of the key players in the Indian squad, including Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Jasprit Bumrah, who often take charge in their respective areas. He believes his role is to offer the best possible advice to these seasoned players while supporting them in any way they need. “We are lucky to have high-level players who always take the lead. My job is to support them and give them the best advice I can,” said Morkel.
Building Trust with Players: Morkel’s Priority
One of Morkel’s main goals is to win the trust of the players as quickly as possible. He mentioned that building good relationships and forming friendships with the team members is crucial. Having played alongside several Indian players in the IPL, Morkel feels confident that he can quickly establish a strong rapport with the squad. “It’s important for me to build a good relationship with the players. I already have connections with many of them because of my time in the IPL,” he said.
Morkel’s immediate focus is on understanding the players’ strengths and weaknesses and helping them set realistic goals for the upcoming series. He emphasized the importance of making friends within the team and offering help in areas where it is needed most.
Morkel’s Reaction to His Appointment: A Surreal Moment
When Morkel was officially appointed as the bowling coach, he admitted that he couldn’t believe it at first. In a light-hearted moment, he shared that after his conversation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), he sat quietly in his room for five minutes, reflecting on the news. Instead of sharing the news with his wife first, he chose to call his father, a decision he joked about later. “I called my father first. It was a special moment for me, and I enjoyed it before telling the rest of my family,” he recalled.
Embracing Indian Culture and Food
Morkel has embraced Indian culture, including the food, which he has come to love. He shared his fondness for local dishes like Puri, Dosa, and Malai Chicken, though he jokingly added that as a coach, he has to set an example by eating nutritious food in front of the players. “I enjoy Puri for breakfast, but as a coach, I have to show the players that I’m eating healthy. Only then will they follow,” Morkel quipped.
Looking Forward to Success with Team India
Morne Morkel knows that there are high expectations surrounding Team India, especially with upcoming matches against tough opponents. Drawing from his experience as a former cricketer, Morkel hopes to guide the team towards victory by sharing his knowledge and expertise. He plans to help players sharpen their skills, offering insights from his successful career.
With the trust of the players, Morkel aims to make a significant impact on India’s bowling department, bringing new energy and ideas as the team prepares for the challenges ahead.
