The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly preparing for a significant shake-up in the national team’s coaching setup, with the futures of bowling coach Morne Morkel and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate hanging in the balance. While head coach Gautam Gambhir is expected to retain his position, doubts are mounting over the effectiveness of his chosen support staff.
According to a report in The Telegraph, the BCCI will conduct a formal review of the coaching unit following the conclusion of the ongoing Test series against England. However, any major decisions, including potential removals, are likely to be made only after the Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for September.
The current coaching setup came into effect post the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Since then, the team’s performances, particularly in the Test format, have drawn sharp criticism from both fans and analysts. Poor team selections during the England series have further fueled dissatisfaction within the BCCI.
Among those under the spotlight, former South African pacer Morne Morkel appears to be facing the most heat. Despite his stature as a seasoned international bowler, the BCCI reportedly feels he has failed to make a meaningful impact on India’s pace battery.
“There’s a belief in the BCCI that he hasn’t been able to nurture even a single pacer,” a source close to the developments told The Telegraph. With the Indian fast bowling unit continuing to struggle, Jasprit Bumrah being the lone exception, questions have been raised about Morkel’s effectiveness in his role.
Similarly, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, who was also appointed under Gambhir’s leadership, is believed to be on thin ice. His role in team strategy and selections has come under the scanner after India’s inconsistent performances.
Adding to the coaching staff’s woes is the controversial exclusion of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the England series. “The coaches always talk of balance, but keeping a world-class wrist spinner like Kuldeep Yadav out has had disastrous consequences,” said a BCCI source.
The discontent is not without precedent. Earlier this year, after the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, the BCCI relieved assistant coach Abhishek Nayar of his duties, citing dissatisfaction with his performance. That decision set a clear precedent that underperformance will not be tolerated.
While Gambhir’s role appears secure for now, the pressure is mounting on his support staff to deliver — and quickly. With high-profile tournaments ahead, including the Asia Cup and the World Test Championship cycle, the BCCI is expected to take a hard look at the setup to ensure results match expectations.
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