Former Proteas bowler Morne Morkel has joined New Zealand’s backroom staff for the forthcoming Women’s T20 World Cup in South Africa, which begins on February 10.
Morkel was previously part of Namibia’s coaching staff for the 2022 Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia, and he will now join the New Zealand women’s team as a ‘tour coach,’ providing fast bowling and overall coaching assistance during the showpiece competition. Morkel, who is currently the bowling coach of the Durban Super Giants in the inaugural SA20 league, will join the White Ferns team ahead of their first group game against Australia.
“The opportunity to join the White Ferns group and get involved in the women’s game was a no-brainer for me,” said Morkel. “The women’s game is growing so rapidly around the world, and this a great opportunity for me to build experience in the women’s game and share my knowledge of international cricket to help this team get better.
“I’ve been following the women’s game and the White Ferns closely over the last couple of years, especially since moving to Australia and seeing their players who have played in the Women’s Big Bash [League]. It’s a talented group of players and they have a very exciting pace bowling attack which I’ll be able to support Ben [Sawyer, head coach] with,” he added.
Morkel expressed excitement at the possibility to coach in the women’s game, citing the game’s tremendous development.
Morkel took 544 wickets in 86 Tests, 117 ODIs, and 44 T20Is for South Africa between 2006 and 2018.
The pacer represented his nation in eight World Cups and has competed in T20 competitions throughout the world, including the IPL, T20 Blast, and Big Bash League.
