Morne Morkel, the former South Africa fast bowler, is poised to take on the role of Pakistan cricket team’s bowling coach for an upcoming Test series against Australia. The 38-year-old Morkel was initially unable to join the team in Pakistan due to his coaching commitment in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, he will now accompany the national team during the Sri Lanka Test series scheduled for next month.
Morkel boasts an impressive career, having served the South African cricket team in 318 international matches and securing a total of 544 wickets. His remarkable record includes 309 Test wickets in 160 innings, 188 wickets in 114 ODIs, and 47 wickets in 44 T20Is.
According to reliable sources, young batsmen Omair Bin Yousuf and Mohammad Hurraira are expected to receive their maiden Test call-ups for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour. Hurraira emerged as the leading run-scorer in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy last year, amassing an impressive 1,024 runs in 11 matches at an average of 73.14 while representing Northern. Meanwhile, Omair, who played for Sindh, scored 644 runs in 10 matches with an average of 46.
Additionally, all-rounder Aamir Jamal, who represented Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2023, is also likely to earn his first Test call-up. Sources indicate that veteran wicketkeeper Sarfaraz Ahmed and pacer Hassan Ali will retain their positions in the squad.
On the other hand, it is anticipated that Mir Hamza, Zahid Mahmood, and Mohammad Wasim Jr. may be dropped from the team, as per insider information. The ongoing specialized training camps at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore are being closely monitored by the selection committee and team management, under the online supervision of Mickey Arthur.
The Sri Lanka Test tour is scheduled to take place in July, with the first Test set for July 16-20 and the second Test to be held on July 24-28.