Reports: Morne Morkel, Ryan ten Doeschate may be axed post-England series

Team India are gearing up for the final Test of the ongoing England series, scheduled to begin on 31 July at the Oval. After showing great fight to draw the fourth Test in Manchester, India still trail 1-2 in the series. All eyes are now on the Oval Test, where the visitors will look to level the series.

However, ahead of this crucial encounter, reports have emerged suggesting that bowling coach Morne Morkel and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate could be sacked regardless of the final result. According to a source speaking to The Telegraph, both support staff members are in danger of losing their positions once the BCCI’s review meeting takes place after the series concludes.

Both Morkel and ten Doeschate were appointed by head coach Gautam Gambhir. But performances, particularly in the red-ball format, have not been impressive, and the BCCI is reportedly considering changes. Despite this, Gambhir is expected to retain his position, with the team currently in a transition phase.

The duo may continue until the Asia Cup in September

India showed character in Manchester, especially with the bat, to secure a draw. However, the management’s decision to hand a debut to Anshul Kamboj backfired. Kamboj appeared unfit and bowled at a reduced pace—often below the 130 km/h mark—which drew criticism from fans and experts alike. The blame for this questionable selection has largely been placed on Morkel.

Furthermore, despite four Tests having already been played, Kuldeep Yadav has yet to feature in the series. The source added, “The coaches always talk of balance, but keeping a world-class wrist spinner like Kuldeep Yadav out has had disastrous consequences.”

Due to time constraints, Morkel and ten Doeschate may continue until the Asia Cup in September, but the writing could already be on the wall. With the home Test season approaching, the BCCI may prefer to make coaching changes soon to give the new staff time to settle in and understand the demands of the players.

As the attention now shifts to the Oval, the looming uncertainty over the support staff’s future adds another layer of pressure—especially for Morkel and ten Doeschate.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at BetBarter and download the BetBarter app to start betting today!