A heartwarming video showcasing the strong camaraderie between Indian cricket team bowlers and their coach, Morne Morkel, has recently gone viral, eliciting positive reactions from fans across social media platforms. The video, capturing light-hearted moments during a practice session, highlights the positive and supportive environment fostered within the team.
The video displays moments of laughter and apparent ease between the players and Morkel, suggesting a bond that extends beyond professional coaching. Fans have lauded this visible camaraderie, attributing it to the team's enhanced performance and overall team spirit. This comes at a time when the Indian team is preparing for crucial tournaments and matches, with high expectations from fans and critics alike.
Morne Morkel, the former South African fast bowling icon, was appointed as the bowling coach for the Indian men's cricket team in August 2024. He replaced Paras Mhambrey in this role and joined Gautam Gambhir's coaching staff. Morkel's appointment was seen as a strategic move by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to bolster the team's coaching setup. Morkel brings with him a wealth of experience, having played 86 Tests, 117 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 44 T20Is for South Africa. He also had a successful stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing for Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals, and Kolkata Knight Riders.
Before taking on the role with the Indian team, Morkel briefly served as the bowling coach for the Pakistan national cricket team in 2023. He also has experience coaching with the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, Namibia, and Durban's Super Giants.
The importance of a positive team environment in sports cannot be overstated. A supportive atmosphere can enhance players' confidence, reduce stress, and improve communication, all of which contribute to better performance on the field. The viral video of Morkel and the Indian bowlers suggests that the team is benefiting from such an environment.
Morkel himself has emphasized the importance of building strong relationships within the team. Having played against many of the Indian players and observed their skills in the IPL, he values the opportunity to forge new connections and friendships.
The video's virality also points to the fans' appreciation for the human side of sports. Seeing their favorite players sharing light-hearted moments with their coach creates a sense of connection and makes them feel more invested in the team's success.
In addition to the viral video, Morkel has recently been in the news for his insights and strategies concerning the Indian team. Ahead of the Asia Cup final against Pakistan in September 2025, he stressed the need for improved batting and bowling execution under pressure, aiming for a "complete game" from the team. He also acknowledged that the team was still a work in progress and that there was always room for improvement.
