Morkel quits as Pakistan bowling coach after World Cup exit

By Special Correspondent

LAHORE: South African Morne Morkel has resigned as Pakistan’s bowling coach, the country’s cricket board (PCB) announced on Monday, two days after their failure to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup in India. Pakistan finished fifth in the standings with eight points having won four matches and losing five, with their final defeat by outgoing champions England on Saturday ruling them out of contention for the knockout stages of the tournament. The former South Africa fast bowler had joined the team on a six-month contract in June. “Pakistan Cricket Board will announce his replacement in due course,” the PCB said in a short statement without providing any reason for Morkel’s departure. Morkel had joined the team for their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which they won 2-0, before a one-day series against Afghanistan and the disappointing Asia Cup campaign. Pakistan’s next assignment is a three-match away Test series against Australia from Dec. 14 to Jan. 7, 2024. Former cricketer Umar Gul, who has already served as the team’s bowling coach in the past, is expected to take on the role once again. Meanwhile, Gul said that he hasn’t been contacted by the PCB regarding the position. He added that Morkel’s contract as the bowling coach was till December.  “I have represented Pakistan before and will do it again if I get the chance,” added Gul.  Morkel, 38, served the South African cricket team in 318 international matches and claimed a total of 544 wickets. His 544 international wickets consisted of 309 Test wickets in 160 innings, 188 in 114 ODIs and 47 in 44 T20Is.

Schedule

First Test: December 14-18, Perth Stadium

Second Test: December 26-30, MCG

Third Test: January 3-7, SCG.