Still coming to terms with a 0-2 test series defeat to South Africa, India bowling coach Morne Morkel said the side must swiftly recalibrate for white-ball cricket as they prepare for the three-match ODI series beginning in Ranchi on Sunday. Stressing that momentum must return “into the Indian dressing room”, Morkel admitted the past fortnight had been bruising, but insisted the squad remained determined to reset.
“It was a disappointing two weeks for us, but we had a couple of days now to reflect,” Morkel said ahead of India’s first practice session at the JSCA Stadium. “The important thing now is to give all our energy into the white-ball team. We've been playing a lot of good white-ball cricket over the last couple of years. I'm excited for the next couple of weeks. Representing India comes first, regardless of format.”
India enter the ODIs on the back of heavy defeats in Kolkata and Guwahati, while South Africa arrive buoyed by a confidence-lifting Test triumph. Morkel cautioned that the Proteas’ recent success would make them particularly dangerous.
“A change into coloured clothing and a change of ball brings different energy. But South Africa have momentum, and a confident Protea side is dangerous. For us, it's important to start well over the next week or two and put the last couple of weeks behind us,” he said.
While the 2026 T20 World Cup remains a broader talking point, Morkel maintained that the ODI series was not being treated as a mere preparatory exercise. “Preparation for the T20 World Cup is one thing, but every time you put on an India jersey, you represent a lot of people, the fans waiting outside the gates, cheering us on,” he said.
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He added that the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli brought stability and experience to the group. On the question of whether KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant would both feature, Morkel kept his distance. “My department is bowling. I don't get involved in selection. We've got selectors and the captain to handle that.”
On conditions in Ranchi, Morkel said the cooler evenings and the surface would shape combinations. “Yesterday when I stepped off the plane, it was much colder. It'll be interesting to see what the ball does in the evenings. The wicket looks a very good surface, almost South African-like.”
Providing updates on injured batters, he said: “I spoke to Shubman two days ago just to check in, and he's recovering well. Shreyas has started his rehab, which is great.”
With several seniors rested, Morkel said the ODIs offer a crucial stage for Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana and Prasidh Krishna. “It’s a great opportunity… it’ll be a good test to see how they handle pressure, bowl at the death, take wickets.”
On the possibility of Rohit and Kohli featuring in the 2027 ODI World Cup, he said, “I’ve always believed in experience — you don’t find it anywhere else. If they feel mentally and physically ready, it’s not a long way away.”
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