'It was always part of our plan': Morne Morkel reveals why India decided to take aggressive approach

IND vs BAN: Former South African cricketer Morne Morkel has revealed that India's aggressive batting approach in their first innings was a premeditated plan to push for a winning result. Despite losing valuable time due to weather interruptions in the second Test against Bangladesh , the Indian team showed remarkable intent and urgency, which paid off handsomely.

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Morne Morkel reveals India's plan

Morne Morkel, who is the new bowling coach of the side, expressed his admiration for the Indian team's strategy. Morkel's insights suggest that India's aggressive batting was not just a spontaneous response to the lost time but a deliberate strategy to take control of the game.

“The way the boys went to the ball up-front, it was incredible to see. We created the pressure (with the ball) and brought wickets, and then to show the intent with the bat was awesome.

“It was always a part of our game plan to see, how can we push this going forward? And how can we get the winning result?” 

“If you can do that for a long period, you'll get results. I think there's so much experience, these guys that can sum up the conditions very well, so they know what's important in that moment.

“And then, it's just a matter of executing it. You can have the best laid plans, but if you can't execute it for a long period of time, you're going to fall short. But this group so far has been on the money, great to see how we adapt to conditions.” 

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Morkel was also asked about the Indian batters' approach, especially Rishabh Pant changing tactics and playing to the situation.

The 39-year-old said that the flexible approach gives the team a lot of advantage.

“We've got guys that can play different styles. If needed, they can take the game on. If needed, they can bat time. That's one of the advantages of our batting line-up is that we've got guys that can really sort of play the moment and put bowlers under pressure.

“That's one thing you want to do as a batter, is to put the bowlers under pressure. We've got the guys that know how to score big runs,” he detailed.

Morkel lauded the Indian team’s professionalism, and said it was a privilege for him to be in this environment.

“For me, it's so far, so enjoyable to see how professional they are and how they go about their daily life to put on a performance. When it comes to recovery, you know, it's right up there.

“When it comes to gym work, fitness work, they honestly leave no stone unturned. I'm not surprised,” he added. 

(With PTI inputs)