Morne Morkel Unavailable, Sairaj Bahutule Steps in as Interim Bowling Coach for Indian Team

While the decision to include Morkel in the coaching team stays firm, being based in Sydney and his current unavailability due to his indisposed father afflicting Morkel in Pretoria are primary reasons for his absence from the squad. "The Morkel deal is not final; talks are still ongoing. He may join later", said an insider. 

The news is Morkel may join the squad for the upcoming series against Bangladesh, encompassing two Tests and three T20I's, this September-October. In the meantime, Sairaj Bahutule, who had an international career from 1997-2003, will be part of the coaching team led by Gautam Gambhir, alongside assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate. The team is scheduled to depart for Sri Lanka on Monday afternoon. 

Further solidifying the coaching staff is T Dilip, continuing his position as the fielding coach from his time with Rahul Dravid's administration. Given the significant role spin is expected to play in the Sri Lanka tour, appointing Bahutule seems a judicious decision. This reasoning is further evident as both the T20I and ODI squads comprise three spinners each. 

Ryan ten Doeschate, currently with the LA Knight Riders in the Major League Cricket (MLC) in the US, is anticipated to join the team in India. MLC plans his arrival in Mumbai, just in time to depart with the team on Monday afternoon. Prior to departure, the BCCI will officially announce Gambhir as the national coach, who will address the media on Monday morning. The Indian team will play three T20Is and three ODIs from July 27 to August 7.