India head coach Gautam Gambhir reportedly expressed his displeasure with bowling coach Morne Morkel’s tardiness during the recent Australia tour. Morkel, a South African fast-bowling legend, was late to a training session due to personal reasons, which did not sit well with Gambhir. According to The Times of India, Gambhir addressed the issue directly with Morkel at the ground, highlighting his strict stance on discipline.
Following the incident, it was reported that Morkel appeared “a bit reserved” during the remainder of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which India lost 1-3. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been informed about the matter, leaving it to Gambhir and Morkel to resolve their differences for the betterment of the team.
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“Gambhir is very strict about discipline,” a source told TOI. “He reprimanded Morkel immediately. The board is aware, and it’s up to both coaches to ensure the team functions smoothly.”
The Indian coaching staff has come under increasing scrutiny after the team failed to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final. Under Gambhir’s tenure, India has lost six of their last ten Tests, raising questions about the effectiveness of the support staff.
Batting coach Abhishek Nayar has faced criticism, with the BCCI reportedly seeking player feedback on whether he has brought innovation or value to the role. Similarly, assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate’s limited international experience has led to doubts about his ability to enhance players’ performance.
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Meanwhile, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla dismissed reports of tension between India’s Test captain Rohit Sharma, coach Gambhir, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar following the team’s poor showing during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The situation underscores the challenges facing the Indian setup as it aims to rebuild and regain its competitive edge.
