India have come into this three-match ODI series after having a Test series whitewash at home, but bowling coach Morne Morkel said that the quick turnaround allows the team a chance to reset. He feels that this series helps them to put the “disappointing” fortnight behind as well.
“Obviously, it was a disappointing two weeks for us, but we had a couple of days now to reflect and I think the important thing now is to give all our energy into the white-ball team,” Morkel said. “We’ve been playing a lot of good white-ball cricket. It’s a couple of new faces, but fresh energy into the squad now with Virat and Rohit and them coming back. Excited for the next couple of weeks now with playing white ball cricket.”
Even though the focus is on the T20 series, as India looks to defend its World Cup title at home, Morkel said that this ODI series still holds plenty of value as well.
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“Preparation for the T20 world cup is one thing but every time you put on the Indian jersey, you are representing the country and you are representing lots of people, the fans standing outside the gate, supporting us and waving us and cheering us on. For me, preparation is one thing, but for me it’s playing good cricket for all the cricket lovers there and the cricket supporters. I think that would be the focus, to bring a bit of momentum back into the Indian dressing room after a disappointing two weeks and by that is to put all other thoughts aside and just play good, solid white ball cricket starting in two days’ time,” Morkel again said.
Morne Morkel also warned that South Africa will arrive with confidence and will be a hard team to beat as well.
“Look, it’s a change of colour by clothing and it’s a change of ball which always brings a different energy,” Morkel said. “But I feel you know the South African team, they have that momentum with them and a confident Proteas team is a dangerous team. It will be important to start well, for us to play good cricket over the next week or two, because they’re here to win.
“Luckily, we have got some good experience ahead now in the team. For us, it is now our focus for the next two days. Give ourselves the best opportunity to prepare well and go out there and put the last couple of weeks behind us and really focus on playing solid cricket,” he further added.
With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli returning in the squad, questions are abound about whether they will be able to take part in the 50-over World Cup in 2027 as well.
“I feel that their bodies can do that. It is still a long way away. The World Cup, by all means,” Morkel said. “I have played many games against them. I have had sleepless nights bowling to them. So, I know as a bowler what goes through your preparation playing against them. So, for me, definitely onboard with that.”
“I think the best is for the medical [team] to update that,” Morkel said. “I spoke to Shubman two days ago just to check in with him and he is recovering well. So, that is pleasing to hear. 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.”
