India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, clarified the reason behind Arshdeep Singh’s omission from the first two T20Is against Australia. Morkel emphasized experimenting with bowling combinations to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Despite being rested, Arshdeep proved his class on return, bagging three wickets and earning the Player of the Match award.
Morne Morkel Explains Team Strategy Behind Resting Arshdeep Singh
Team India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel shed light on the decision to bench Arshdeep Singh, India’s top T20 wicket-taker, for the first two matches against Australia. The move raised eyebrows among fans, but Morkel’s explanation revealed a well-thought-out plan aimed at building squad depth before the T20 World Cup.
Morkel explained that the management is testing different bowling combinations to assess player performance under pressure. “Arshdeep is experienced and understands the bigger picture,” Morkel stated. “He knows his value to the team, especially with his record in the powerplay, but this tour is also about giving others a chance and looking at various options.”
When Arshdeep returned for the third T20I, he delivered a stunning performance 3 wickets for 35 runs in four overs, including crucial breakthroughs both in the powerplay and the death overs. His spell earned him the Player of the Match award, reaffirming his importance to the team’s bowling attack.
Morkel admitted that selection calls can be tough, saying, “It’s never easy. Players will feel disappointed when not picked, but it’s important for us to test them in different match situations before the World Cup. With limited matches left, we need to know how each bowler performs under pressure.”
The South African legend further added that the coaching staff encourages all players to stay prepared and focused. “We tell them to keep working hard and stay ready for opportunities. Every game gives us valuable insights into how players adapt to conditions and respond to tough phases,” he said.
Meanwhile, India also faced a setback as Nitish Kumar Reddy, the promising all-rounder, missed the first three T20Is due to a left quadriceps injury and neck spasms. However, Morkel provided a positive update, stating that Reddy has been progressing well in training, including batting, bowling, and fielding drills.
The ongoing India vs Australia T20 Series has been evenly contested so far. After the first three matches, the series is tied 1–1, with one game washed out. The fourth T20I will take place at Carrara Oval in Queensland on Thursday, November 6, setting up a thrilling contest as both sides look to take the lead.
This experimental phase under Morkel’s guidance shows India’s intent to strike the right balance before the global tournament. With bowlers like Arshdeep, Bumrah, and emerging pacers rotating strategically, India aims to fine-tune its attack for every condition and opposition.
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FAQ
Why was Arshdeep Singh rested in the first two T20Is against Australia?
Morne Morkel stated that Arshdeep was rested to test different bowling combinations and assess squad depth ahead of the T20 World Cup.
How did Arshdeep perform on his return?
Arshdeep Singh impressed everyone in the third T20I, taking three wickets for 35 runs and earning the Player of the Match award.
What did Morkel say about team selection challenges?
Morkel admitted that selection decisions can be tough but are necessary to evaluate players under pressure before major tournaments.
What is Nitish Kumar Reddy’s injury update?
Morkel confirmed that Nitish has been improving, having completed all training drills, and will undergo further assessment before returning.
When and where will the next T20I between India and Australia be played?
The fourth T20I of the India vs Australia series will be held at Carrara Oval, Queensland, on Thursday, November 6.
