Morne Morkel, the bowling coach for India, has indicated that left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh is being considered for the upcoming Test matches against New Zealand.
The team is looking to assemble a group of bowlers who can serve as backup options for the two Tests scheduled in Wellington and Christchurch. Arshdeep, who recently marked his 100th T20I appearance by taking two wickets in the second T20I against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, is a key player in this strategy. He is just two wickets shy of becoming the first Indian bowler to achieve 150 T20I wickets.
In addition to his T20I success, Arshdeep has demonstrated his potential in ODIs, claiming 30 wickets in 18 matches, including a notable five-wicket haul. However, he is yet to make his Test debut.
Insights from Coach Morkel on Red-Ball Strategy
Discussing Arshdeep’s chances in red-ball cricket, Morkel shared with reporters, “We are planning a group of bowlers to potentially stay as cover for the Tests due to the schedule. As we approach the matches, we will better understand the conditions and finalize our bowling lineup. Currently, we have a solid group of bowlers in mind, and Arshdeep is certainly part of that discussion. He consistently puts in the effort and meets all the criteria, so I am confident he will perform well with the red ball if called upon.”
In his domestic red-ball career, Arshdeep has played 24 matches, taking 73 wickets at an average of 30.71, including a four-wicket haul and two five-wicket hauls, with his best figures being 6/40.
Workload Management for the New Zealand Tour
Morkel also addressed the management of bowlers’ workloads during the tour, which includes five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests. He stated that the tour’s plan was established well in advance, ensuring bowlers are aware of their responsibilities. “We have players in India A preparing for red-ball cricket. In the 50-over matches, we will rotate players to ensure they get the necessary game time before the Tests. We believe we have a solid plan in place for this,” he remarked.
He acknowledged that plans may not always unfold as expected, but the team has prepared backup options and combinations to ensure readiness for the first Test and the ODIs. This includes all players, from Jasprit Bumrah downwards. Following the five T20Is, the ODIs will commence on November 4. Arshdeep is included in the ODI squad, alongside pacers Anshul Kamboj and Akash Deep, who are also part of the Test squad. The Tests are set to begin on November 19, with several regular Test batters participating in India A matches to gain experience before the Tests.