A Team India member has left Dubai for his home ahead of the side’s big matches against Bangladesh and Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 this week.
The Indian cricket team have suffered a big blow even before they can begin their campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday. A member of the Team India contingent has flown back home from Dubai on Monday and it is not clear when he will be able join the team.
The team member who has left Dubai is bowling coach and former South Africa pacer Morne Morkel. The 40-year-old Protea has lost his father Albert recently and immediately flew back to South Africa to be with his family. Morne’s brother Albie Morkel also played cricket for South Africa and was a member of MS Dhoni in their IPL-title winning run for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
According to a report in ‘Dainik Jagran’ newspaper, Morkel’s return date remains uncertain. His absence is a significant setback for Team India, which is set to kick off their Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20. Morne Morkel was a former bowling coach with Pakistan cricket team as well and his inputs for the India vs Pakistan clash in Dubai on Sunday (February 23) would have been crucial for the side.
Morne Morkel turned out in 86 Tests, 117 ODIs and 44 T20Is for South Africa. He claimed 309 Test wickets, 188 ODI scalps and 47 T20 wickets in his career.
Morne Morkel! pic.twitter.com/a4AjUYprRk
— RVCJ Media (@RVCJ_FB) February 18, 2025
Indians intensify training ahead of Bangladesh clash
With the tournament opener fast approaching, the Indian squad continued rigourous training on Monday. Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, who is expected to play a key role as a finisher, focused on power-hitting. Known for his technically-correct technique, Rahul appeared to embrace a more aggressive approach, working extensively on clearing the ropes with ease.
With Rishabh Pant eyeing a spot in the playing XI, Rahul seems to be reinforcing his ability to accelerate in the death overs. Having scored a brisk 40 off 29 balls in the third ODI against England, he practiced hitting sixes consistently during a high-intensity session. Slated to bat at No. 5 or 6, his ability to provide late-innings firepower will be crucial.
Middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer, known for his attacking intent, also worked on his power game. Meanwhile, opener Shubman Gill, fresh from a stellar ODI series against England where he notched scores of 87, 60, and 112, continued to showcase his sublime touch, playing crisp drives and authoritative pulls.
Skipper Rohit Sharma, who roared back to form with a brilliant 119 in the second ODI against England, looked sharp during the session, practicing late cuts and finesse shots. Batting mainstay Virat Kohli, who signaled a return to rhythm with a well-constructed 52 in the third ODI, dedicated time to refining his technique. He focused on timing the ball well and playing with control, exuding confidence at the crease.
