‘We have a bulletproof plan for everyone, including Jasprit Bumrah’: India bowling coach Morne Morkel on workload issue

ByTech Word News

Indian cricketer Jasprit Bumrah with bowling coach Morne Morkel (PTI Photo/R Senthilkumar) India plans to keep a separate group of bowlers in New Zealand as backup for the two-match Test series next month.Bowling coach Morne Morkel said on Monday that the move is part of a carefully planned strategy to manage the bowlers’ workload during a demanding tour that includes five T20Is, five ODIs and two Tests.With the Test series starting on November 19, just four days after the five-match ODI series ends, workload management is important for the team.Morkel said the team will decide on their bowling combination closer to the series after assessing the conditions in New Zealand.“We are planning a group of bowlers that we would like to potentially stay behind as cover due to the schedule. In due course, once we have a better understanding of the conditions at this time of year, we will have a clear idea of ​​the makeup of our bowling unit,” Morkel said.Backing up Arshdeep’s credentials, the coach coach added, “On paper and at the back of our minds, there is a nice group of bowlers who can suit all conditions and Arshdeep is definitely in that conversation.“He’s a guy who always works hard and ticks all the boxes, so if he’s needed with the red ball, I’m pretty sure he’ll be fine,” added the former South African quick.

Rotation schedule to avoid burnout

India have been preparing their workload strategy for the month, with some players already featuring for the India A side to build readiness for red-ball cricket. The team also plans to rotate the bowlers during the ODIs so that they can get match practice and gradually prepare for the Tests.“Every bowler is clear about what is expected of him in terms of workload and bowling. As you know, a few guys are playing in the A-side to prepare for red-ball cricket,” added Morkel.Explaining the preparations, he said: “In the 50-over format, we will also rotate and give the boys the game time they need to prepare for the Test matches. We have a bulletproof plan at the moment in terms of how we have mapped everything out, but unfortunately things don’t always go according to plan.”“The back-up and combinations that we have are all in place and ready in terms of the rotation, ensuring that everyone, including Jasprit Bumrah right down, is ready for the first red-ball Test and the 50-over matches,” Morkel said.