Morne Morkel reveals latest on Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer injuries
28 Nov 2025

Team India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has provided an encouraging update on the recovery of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer.

The duo has been on the sidelines due to injuries.

Gill hurt his neck during the Kolkata Test two weeks ago while Iyer was sidelined after suffering a spleen laceration during last month's Australia tour.

Here's what the former South African pacer had to say.

Morkel's optimism for their return
Coach's statement

Morkel expressed his hope for the players' swift return to the squad.

"I think the best is for the medical [team] to give that [update]. I spoke to Shubman two days ago just to check in with him and he is recovering well. So, that is pleasing to hear," Morkel said to reporters in Ranchi on Friday.

"Shreyas has also started his rehab, which is great. So, we are looking forward to welcoming them back into the squad. The good thing is that they are healthy and they are starting their preparation on their way back into the team."

India's ODI squad adjustments amid injuries
Team changes

With Gill and Iyer's absence, India will have to make some changes in their ODI squad.

Yashasvi Jaiswal is likely to take Gill's place, while the replacement for Iyer at No. 4 is still uncertain with Rishabh Pant and Tilak Varma being the possible contenders.

Likely XI for 1st ODI: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (c and wk), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana.

Morkel on India's recent performance and upcoming series
Performance review

Morkel acknowledged the pressure on India after their recent performance. They lost the two-Test series against South Africa 0-2.

The team has lost five of their last seven Tests and will be looking to regain their form in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa.

He said, "It's a change of color by clothing and it's a change of ball which always brings a different energy."