NEW DELHI: As the India vs Australia T20I series continues to unfold, one of the most debated topics has been the exclusion of Arshdeep Singh from the first two matches. The left-arm pacer finally got his opportunity in the third T20I and he made it count. Returning to the side, Arshdeep produced a brilliant performance, guiding India to victory and earning the Player of the Match award.
Despite being India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is with 104 wickets, Arshdeep has often found himself on the sidelines. His comeback performance served as a timely reminder of his value to the team.
Morne Morkel on Patience and Pressure
Speaking at a press conference, India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel acknowledged how difficult it can be for players to stay patient when left out.
“It is not easy, there will always be disappointment in terms of players and selection, but that is something at times that, as a player, is uncontrollable,”Morkel said.
Morkel said the management continues to encourage players to be ready for opportunities, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching.
“For us, from our side, we just keep on asking them to work hard and try hard and be ready for when they do get the opportunity,” he explained.
Testing Combinations Ahead of World Cup
He added that India’s limited matches before the World Cup make it crucial to test players under pressure.
“There are limited games now leading into the T20 World Cup, so it is essential for us to see how the players can react in certain situations under pressure, otherwise, it will be unknown to us,” he noted.
“It is a bit of playing those sorts of games and then still having the mindset to win the game of cricket,” Morkel said. “You need to have options available. I think every team, if you look across the world, is playing around with options,” he further added.
Arshdeep’s return not only strengthened India’s bowling attack but also showed his ability to deliver when given the chance, giving the team management a boost ahead of the T20 World Cup.
