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"Need Part-Time Guys To Do Job": Morkel Stresses 'All-Rounder Effort' For Asia Cup

Soumyajit Dutta

Morne Morkel [Source: @Vimalwa/X.com]Morne Morkel [Source: @Vimalwa/X.com]

As the Indian cricket team gears up for its Asia Cup opener against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai, bowling coach Morne Morkel has highlighted the critical role of all-rounders. With conditions in Dubai expected to feature fresher, greener pitches compared to the spin-friendly surfaces of the recent Champions Trophy, team balance will be paramount. 

Morkel emphasised that the multi-dimensional skills of players like Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel could prove decisive in navigating the tournament's challenges and securing success.

Morkel Admits Pushing Players to Develop Both Skills

Morkel revealed his constant push for all-rounders to hone both their batting and bowling, creating a culture of hard work and versatility within the team environment.

"For me, it's always important to see Shivam [Shivam Dube] like a guy that can bowl four overs. I'm always pushing for all-rounders or their guys to work hard on both skills. Sometimes guys can get a little bit naughty in practice or focus just on one. Here in this environment, we want to leave no stone unturned. On the day, we're going to need somebody to do the work for us," Morkel told the reporters.

The Value of Part-Time Options

Expanding on his philosophy, the former South African pacer also stressed the immense value of developing part-time bowling options within the batting lineup. This, he believes, offers the team tremendous tactical flexibility.

"Yes, we'll have our front-line guys who can attack. But if we can keep on developing guys, part-time guys to do a job, it gives us so many more options in terms of combinations for selection and stuff like that. So that's important that once guys have those sort of skills, to keep on working on that daily and improve and get better," Morkel added.

Confidence Despite Limited Match Time

Addressing India's limited recent game time in the T20 format, Morne Morkel expressed unwavering confidence in the squad's preparedness and ability to rise to the occasion when the tournament begins.

"I think that it's a good point. For us, it's just making sure when we do the work in our training, we step it up, make sure we train at a certain intensity. Once you put the Indian shirt on, from there, it's about getting ready for a match battle. I'm pretty sure once they step over the line, these guys will be ready to go and play and put on a solid performance for the team," Morkel concluded.

India finds itself in a group with the UAE, Pakistan, and Oman, with the top two teams advancing to the Super Four stage. The Men in Blue will play the high-voltage Pakistan clash on September 14.