India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has left the team’s training camp in Dubai due to a personal crisis, dealing a significant blow to India’s preparations for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. According to the Times of India, the former South African fast bowler departed after an urgent family matter, which Dainik Jagran later confirmed as the passing of his father.
Morkel, appointed in September 2024, had joined the Indian squad in Dubai on February 15 and participated in the team’s first practice session on February 16. However, his absence from the second training session under lights on February 17 has sparked uncertainty over his return during the tournament. With no official confirmation of his comeback, India faces a challenge as Morkel has been integral to the team’s bowling strategies since his appointment.
India will begin their Champions Trophy campaign without Morkel against Bangladesh on February 20 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Pakistan was originally set to host the tournament, but political tensions with India led to the ICC shifting India’s matches to Dubai. India will face Pakistan in a highly anticipated clash on February 23, followed by a group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2. Should India progress, the knockout stages, including the semifinal and final, will also take place in Dubai.
The 10th edition of the ICC Champions Trophy kicks off with Pakistan facing New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. Lahore and Rawalpindi will also host matches, with eight teams competing for the prestigious title.
