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Big Blow For India! Morne Morkel Exits Dubai Ahead Of Champions Trophy

Soumyajit Dutta

Morne Morkel and Gautam Gambhir [Source: @mahedele20181/X.com]Morne Morkel and Gautam Gambhir [Source: @mahedele20181/X.com]

India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has abruptly departed from the team’s training camp in Dubai to address a personal crisis back home. As reported by the Times of India, the former South African pace bowler left due to an urgent family matter. 

Dainik Jagran later specified that Morne Morkel’s sudden exit followed the passing of his father. Appointed to the role in September 2024, Morkel accompanied the squad to Dubai on February 15 and participated in India’s opening practice session ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which began on February 16.

Will Morne Return To India's Camp For Champions Trophy?

As reports suggest, the 40-year-old was notably missing from the team’s second training session under lights on February 17. His absence raises questions about his potential return to the camp during the tournament.

With no reports of Morkel joining back in the camp anytime soon, India faces a major setback ahead of their campaign. The bowling coach of India, who joined back in September 2024 is a vital cog in India's all-round bowling development.

India To Start Their Campaign Without Morne

Morkel’s departure comes at a critical juncture for India, which opens its Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Political tensions between India and Pakistan led the ICC to shift India’s matches to Dubai, despite Pakistan being the official host.

The marquee India-Pakistan clash is slated for February 23 in Dubai, followed by India’s final group-stage game against New Zealand on March 2. The knockout stages, including the semifinal and final, will also be held in Dubai if India advances.

The opening match of the marquee tournament between Pakistan and New Zealand is set for February 19 in Karachi. Alongside Dubai, matches will be hosted in Lahore and Rawalpindi, featuring eight teams in the 10th edition of the tournament.