In a surprising development, Morne Morkel, the esteemed former South African fast bowler serving as the bowling coach for the Pakistan national men’s cricket team, has tendered his resignation, as confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday.
Morkel, who commenced his role on a six-month contract in June of this year, undertook his initial assignment during the team’s tour to Sri Lanka for a two-match Test series. The PCB, in a press release, acknowledged Morkel’s departure and indicated that the announcement of his successor would be made “in due course.”
“The former South Africa fast bowler joined the Pakistan team on a six-month contract in June this year,” stated the PCB.
As the cricketing fraternity digests this development, Pakistan prepares for its upcoming challenge—a three-match Test series against Australia scheduled from December 14, 2023, to January 7, 2024, in Australia.
This announcement follows closely on the heels of Pakistan’s exit from the Cricket World Cup, where they fell short of reaching the semi-finals for the second consecutive tournament. The team faced setbacks, losing five of their nine games, notably suffering a seven-wicket defeat against arch-rivals India in a high-stakes match in Ahmedabad. The unexpected loss to Afghanistan further intensified scrutiny on the team’s performance.
Criticism from fans and former cricketers ensued, emphasizing the imperative need for substantial improvements within the squad. The untimely departure from the Cricket World Cup has prompted introspection within the cricketing circles, calling for strategic reforms.
It is noteworthy that last month, Inzamamul Haq stepped down from his role as the chief selector of the cricket team amid media reports alleging his association with a player’s management company registered with the PCB.
