India’s preparation for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh has begun with a training camp in Chennai, where some new faces have also joined the squad.
The Bangladesh Test series, which starts on September 19, will be the debut for Morne Morkel as India’s bowling coach. Gautam Gambhir, India’s new head coach, is leading the team’s preparations alongside captain Rohit Sharma.
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Morne Morkel joins team India's camp for Bangladesh Test series
Former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel has joined India as their new bowling coach. He has taken over from Paras Mhambrey. Morkel worked closely with Gambhir during the IPL at Lucknow Super Giants and has a strong coaching background, including a successful stint with Pakistan’s fast bowlers.
The countdown starts as #TeamIndia begin their preps for an exciting home season.#INDvBAN pic.twitter.com/VlIvau5AfD
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 13, 2024
Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir addressed the squad as the team gathered for the preparatory camp. This is Gambhir’s first Test assignment as head coach after taking over from Rahul Dravid.
His other support staff includes assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate, but there is no separate role for a batting coach. Gambhir and his assistants will manage batting responsibilities as well.
Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant return to the Test side after missing recent matches. Kohli was unavailable during the England series, and Pant returns after his car accident in December 2022.
Both players are expected to contribute in India's aim for vital World Test Championship points. India will play 10 Test matches in the current WTC cycle, including the two-match series against Bangladesh.
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India leads the WTC table with 68.52 percentage points, followed by Australia. The upcoming matches will be important for both teams to secure a place in the WTC final.
India’s Test season starts with exciting changes as they prepare for a busy schedule. With Morkel’s addition, the team is focused on performing well in the series against Bangladesh.
MORE: WTC Final 2025: Date, venue, fixture and schedule for next World Test Championship final
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