Pakistan bowling coach Morne Morkel resigns after early Cricket World Cup exit

Former South African pace bowler Morne Morkel has stepped down as the Pakistan cricket team's bowling coach, following Pakistan's exit from the Cricket World Cup in India. Pakistan, led by Babar Azam, endured a challenging World Cup campaign, losing five of their nine matches and finished the tournament with a 93-run loss to England in Kolkata.

Morkel, who had previously finished his commitment with the IPL side Lucknow Super Giants, had initially joined the Pakistan team on a six-month contract in June. His tenure began with Pakistan's tour of Sri Lanka for a two-Test series.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will soon announce his replacement. Pakistan will feature next in a three-match Test series against Australia, set to take place from December 14, 2023, to January 7, 2024, in Australia.

Umar Gul, a former fast bowler with experience working with the national team on an interim basis and coaching the Afghanistan team, is a leading candidate to succeed Morkel.

Pakistan's failure to secure a spot in the World Cup semifinals, finishing in fifth place, has triggered calls from several former cricketers for significant changes in the team. These suggestions include the possible removal of Babar Azam as captain. Pakistan endured losses against India, Australia, South Africa, England, and a surprising defeat to Afghanistan.

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