Team India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has left the squad’s training camp in Dubai due to a personal emergency, just days before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 begins. The former South African fast bowler was actively involved in practice sessions but was noticeably absent from the latest drills. According to reports, Morkel’s father has passed away, prompting him to return home immediately to be with his family. His departure leaves India without a bowling coach at a crucial moment, and it’s unclear whether he will rejoin the squad before the tournament kicks off.
Morkel’s Sudden Absence from Training Raises Concerns – Morkel arrived in Dubai with the Indian team on February 15 and was actively involved in the first training session at the ICC Academy on February 16. However, when Team India gathered for a floodlight training session on February 17, Morkel was missing, raising questions. As per Times of India, the entire squad was present for the session except Morkel. While there was no official word at first, later reports from Dainik Jagran confirmed that he had flown back home due to his father’s passing.
India’s Champions Trophy Journey Begins Soon – India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign starts on Thursday, February 20, with their first match against Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. However, the most anticipated game of the tournament will be the high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan, scheduled for Sunday, February 23, in Dubai. Due to political tensions, India had refused to travel to Pakistan, leading the ICC to allow India to play all their matches in Dubai instead. India’s third and final group-stage match will be against New Zealand on March 2, also in Dubai. If India advances, they will play the semi-final on March 4, while the second semi-final will be held in Lahore on March 5. The final is set for March 9 in Dubai.
Champions Trophy 2025: What You Need to Know – The 10th edition of the ICC Champions Trophy will kick off on February 19, with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. The tournament will feature 8 teams, with matches held across Dubai, Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Morkel’s absence is undoubtedly a setback for India’s bowling unit as they finalize their preparations. On a positive note, wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was spotted interacting with fans, signing autographs, and carefully participating in shadow batting drills. His cautious approach to fielding practice suggests that while he is recovering well, he is still being careful with his movements. As India gets ready to take on Bangladesh, fans will be hoping for a strong start and some clarity on whether Morkel will return before the tournament progresses.
