The Indian men’s cricket team’s backroom staff could be set for a reshuffle, with fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate in discussions with the BCCI over their respective
futures. While Morkel is yet to make a decision, Doeschate has expressed reservations about travelling with the team throughout the year.
According to The Times of India, both coaches could part ways with the Gautam Gambhir-led support staff after the conclusion of India’s ongoing tour of England.
“Doeschate isn’t very sure of continuing with this job. He has conveyed his problems with travelling with the team throughout the year. Morkel is still weighing his options,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying by the publication.
The BCCI is currently in discussions with both coaches in an attempt to resolve the situation.
“The board is discussing the matter with the two coaches and will try to see if things can be sorted out,” the source added.
Morkel and Doeschate were appointed by the BCCI on Gambhir’s recommendation, having previously worked with them in the IPL.
The report further stated that Doeschate could be considering a role with an IPL franchise, while Morkel’s future remains uncertain.
What happens if Morkel moves on?
Following the England tour, India will travel to Zimbabwe for a three-match T20I series, with VVS Laxman set to take charge as head coach along with the coaching staff from the BCCI Centre of Excellence. The tour begins in late July.
Gambhir will then resume his duties for India’s tour of Sri Lanka, where the team is scheduled to play a two-Test series starting August 15.
If Morkel does not renew his contract, which runs until the end of the England tour, the BCCI may send former India fast bowler Laxmipathy Balaji as the team’s fast-bowling coach for the Sri Lanka tour.
India’s three-match ODI series against England begins on Tuesday.
