With the first Test between England and India at Headingley just a week away, Team India’s red-ball preparations are in full swing. In a training video shared by the BCCI, bowling coach Morne Morkel expressed satisfaction with the intensity and discipline shown by the bowlers during their early sessions in English conditions. Reflecting on the practice so far, Morkel said the lively conditions have suited the fast bowlers and boosted their confidence early in the tour. “The conditions have suited the fast bowlers, which is very exciting. It gets their confidence going. It’s been testing for the batters, but that also helps them prepare for what’s coming,” said Morkel. “I don’t think the Test match pitches will be as spicy, but this phase is vital for adjusting to movement and bounce.” Morkel emphasised that the real test for the bowling unit will come when the surfaces flatten out. “There’s been a lot of good banter between bat and ball, but when the wickets go flat, that’s where we’ll need character. I won’t tell them to only be vocal when the ball is moving – we need to bring that intensity at all times.”
The former South Africa pacer underlined the importance of consistency in English conditions. “What’s crucial in England is consistency – in training, execution, and personal processes. We have great variety in our bowling attack, and the key is whether they can do the basics well over long spells.”Quiz: Who’s that IPL player? Admitting he was initially nervous due to India’s limited red-ball cricket in recent months, Morkel said he was pleased with what he saw. “I was a bit concerned about the lack of red-ball cricket, but watching the guys move and train over the last few days has been a pleasing sight. There’s fantastic energy in the group, and that’s what you need going into a big series.” India will play five Tests in England, starting with the first Test at Headingley on June 20.
