India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel addressed the minor injury concerns surrounding senior fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj after Day 3 of the Manchester Test. Offering clarity on their condition, Morkel assured that both players seem to be fine.
Bumrah left the field during the second session of play on Friday, July 25, but returned after the tea break to bowl a few overs. Meanwhile, Siraj was seen limping slightly during his run-up, which raised alarm among Indian supporters. Speaking at the post-day press conference at Old Trafford, Morkel shared an update on the pace duo’s fitness, stating:
“Unfortunately, when we took the second new ball, Booms [Bumrah] rolled his ankle going down the stairs. And then, Siraj also rolled his foot in one of the foot holes. But, they seem to be okay.”
The former South African fast bowler also acknowledged that India had an off day with the ball on Day 2 in Manchester. However, he praised the bowlers for putting in a significantly improved performance on Friday. Morkel further explained:
“We were much better today with the ball. Yesterday was probably a tough day for us in the office. We missed our lines, which put us slightly on the back foot. But, I thought the way the boys responded this morning, especially Siraj and Booms [Bumrah], was good to see. From there, we tried our best with trying to create opportunities. The wicket looked like it played better than the first two days.”
“We Need To Bring More Energy” – Morkel On India’s Bowling Struggles
Although batting conditions were ideal on Day 3 in Manchester, India’s inability to make an impact with the ball remains a concern for the touring side. Bowling coach Morne Morkel acknowledged that the team must find ways to remain competitive even when the pitch offers little assistance.
“That’s something that we are trying to get our heads around. On this surface, where it gets a little bit flatter, you need that little bit of energy behind that ball. And I think that’s definintely one of the factors for us in our bowling innings – just getting that little extra zip off the wicket,” the Indian bowling coach stated.
By the end of play on Day 3, England captain Ben Stokes was unbeaten on 77, while Liam Dawson was on 21. Stokes had earlier retired hurt on 66 but returned to the crease after Chris Woakes was dismissed.
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