India's bowling coach Morkel leaves camp due to personal emergency
What's the story
India's bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has suddenly departed from the team's practice camp in Dubai following a personal emergency.
The former South African fast bowler was named India's top bowling coach in September last year.
He had joined the Indian team for their first practice session ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Sunday.
However, he was missing from the second practice session on Monday night.
Return speculation
Uncertainty surrounds Morkel's return to Indian team
According to a report in Dainik Jagran, there is no official word on when Morkel will rejoin the Indian team. This uncertainty has apparently sent a wave of concern and sorrow across the squad.
It is still unclear if he will make it back in time for India's first match against Bangladesh in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled for Thursday.
Coaching challenges
Morkel's departure increases pressure on coaching staff
With Morkel's sudden exit, the onus has fallen on the shoulders of the rest of the Indian coaching staff.
It remains to be seen if Gautam Gambhir or skipper Rohit Sharma will ask BCCI to send another member to help with training of players during this time.
The development comes as a blow to India, as they gear up for their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign.
Match schedule
India's upcoming matches in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
India will take on Bangladesh in their opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Thursday.
The match will be played at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
India will then take on Pakistan on Sunday (February 23) and New Zealand on March 2 at the same venue.
The first semifinal will be held on March 4 in Dubai with the final on March 9, if India qualifies.
Performance impact
Morkel's absence could impact India's performance
Morkel's absence could prove to be a boon for the Indian team, particularly on Dubai pitches which are known to assist fast bowlers.
This is especially pertinent since the team is already missing experienced pacer Jasprit Bumrah.
Nevertheless, India have a strong record against Bangladesh in ODI contests, leading 32-8 overall and 8-2 at neutral venues.