Morkel backs Rohit Sharma’s experience and calmness for India’s batting line-up
Morne Morkel, the bowling coach for India, has expressed strong confidence in veteran opener Rohit Sharma, emphasising his experience and ability to bring a sense of calmness to the team’s batting unit. Morkel’s remarks come amidst scrutiny over Rohit’s recent form, particularly ahead of the series-deciding third ODI against England at Lord’s.
Morkel acknowledged the challenging conditions for opening batters throughout the series, noting that the new ball has been moving significantly. Despite Rohit’s scores in the initial two matches, Morkel stated, “No doubt Rohit will work it out. He has done it in the past, he is experienced. And he just brings that calmness to the batting line-up. So without a doubt, no worries and concerns at all with the way he is going about things.” This sentiment highlights Morkel’s belief in Rohit’s capacity to regain his rhythm in English conditions.
Batting Unit Urged to Adapt
While defending Rohit, Morkel also pointed out the need for the entire Indian batting line-up to improve. He specifically referenced the second ODI in Cardiff, where India collapsed from a strong position of 178/3 to being bowled out for 233. This allowed England to secure a four-wicket victory and level the series.
Morkel advised the batters to adapt quickly to the conditions, particularly at Lord’s, which is known for its tricky surface. He suggested that batters should give themselves an extra five to ten balls to get accustomed to the pace of the pitch before attempting to dominate. The former Proteas pacer stressed the importance of forming partnerships, especially given the experience within India‘s top and middle order.
The bowling coach praised India‘s bowlers for their efforts in the previous match but also highlighted the critical need for taking wickets at regular intervals, especially during the middle overs. He noted that while the pace attack, including Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar, executed plans well with extra bounce, England‘s Joe Root‘s unbeaten innings of 99 demonstrated the importance of denying easy passages to the opposition.
Morkel reiterated, “It is crucial to get those wickets in the middle phase. We will keep working on ways to find those breakthroughs.” He also cautioned against overwhelming bowlers with excessive technical advice before a crucial game.
Preparation for Future Tournaments
The ongoing series against England is serving as a vital preparation for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2027, which is scheduled to be held in South Africa. Morkel, having learned his trade in South Africa, is prepared to offer his valuable local insights to the team regarding the surfaces and how wickets can play differently at various times of the year.
He stated that there are ongoing conversations about the World Cup and planning that can be advanced closer to the tournament. Morkel emphasised the team’s focus on playing their best brand of cricket. “Definitely, I will put that forward to the team and to the table. From there, we just have to play our best cricket when it comes to the World Cup time,” he added.
India will be without all-rounder Washington Sundar for the remainder of the series, as he has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury.
The series decider against England is scheduled to take place at Lord’s.
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Source: icc-cricket.com
