EDICRIC | Cricket News | Morne Morkel Steps Down as Pakistan Fast-Bowling Coach
Morne Morkel Steps Down as Pakistan Fast-Bowling Coach
After Pakistan’s disappointing exit from the ICC World Cup 2023, Morne Morkel has resigned as the fast-bowling coach of the national team. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the announcement just a month before Morkel’s contract was set to expire. This decision comes amid speculation about the team’s performance and raises questions about the future of Pakistan’s bowling department.
🚨 News: Morne Morkel stepped down from his role as the bowling coach for the Pakistan men’s team.#Edicric | #PakistanCricket | #MorneMorkel pic.twitter.com/5roRM3RozS
— Edicric (@officialedicric) November 13, 2023
Morkel, a former South African fast bowler who became an Australian citizen, took on the role of Pakistan’s bowling coach in June of the current year. His first assignment included a successful two-match Test series in Sri Lanka, where Pakistan emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline. Following this, the team achieved a clean sweep against Afghanistan in a three-match ODI series.
Morne Morkel | Ups and Downs
While the early part of Morkel’s tenure saw success against Afghanistan and in the Test series, the team faced challenges in the Asia Cup. Injuries to key bowlers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah impacted Pakistan’s performance, leading to their failure to qualify for the final. The World Cup campaign began promisingly with two wins, but Pakistan faltered later, losing four consecutive matches for the first time in World Cup history.
One of the highlights of Morkel’s coaching period was the series against Afghanistan and the early Asia Cup matches. Pakistan’s fast bowlers, including Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, showcased their potential by taking all ten wickets in a game against India, although it was ultimately washed out.
Who’s Next Pakistan Bowling Coach?
Morkel’s departure comes as a surprise, especially considering the upcoming Test series against Australia scheduled from December 14, 2023, to January 7, 2024. The abrupt resignation leaves the PCB in search of a replacement for the crucial role of fast-bowling coach.
The decision follows Pakistan’s exit from the Cricket World Cup, where they finished fifth, winning four games and losing five. The team faced criticism from fans and former cricketers, highlighting the need for improvements in various aspects of the game.
Ongoing Changes in Pakistani Cricket
Morkel’s resignation adds to the recent changes in Pakistani cricket management, with Inzamamul Haq stepping down as chief selector last month amid controversy over his alleged stake in a player’s management company registered with the PCB.
Conclusion
As Pakistan looks ahead to the upcoming Test series against Australia, the sudden departure of Morne Morkel raises questions about the team’s coaching staff and its impact on the fast-bowling department. The PCB’s decision on Morkel’s replacement will be closely watched as the team aims to bounce back from its World Cup disappointment and face new challenges in the Test format.
