Days Before Champions Trophy Start, India Bowling Coach Returns Home Due To 'Personal Emergency'

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel had to return home due to the death of his father. His return date to Dubai for the team's Champions Trophy campaign isn't yet confirmed.

Just days before the start of the ICC Champions Trophy, Team India's bowling coach Morne Morkel had to fly back home from Dubai due to the death of his father. Morkel reached Dubai with the other members of the Indian team on February 15 and was part of many training sessions in the Middle Eastern region. But, the South African wasn't a part of the team's practice session on Monday. It was later reported that the former Proteas fast bowler was preparing to return home due to the unforeseen development.

Morkel's return schedule is not yet confirmed, as per Dainik Jagran, and his absence is bound to affect Team India's hopes of winning the Champions Trophy. India are scheduled to begin their ICC Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20.

A Glimpse Into Team India's Preparations

Gearing up for the finisher's role, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul worked on his big-hitting skills as the Indian team trained for the second time on Monday ahead of their Champions Trophy opener against Bangladesh.

Rahul, typically known for his technical approach, appeared to shift gears as he focused on playing aggressive shots.