Morne Morkel, the bowling coach of the Indian national team, ahead of the fifth T20I match against the West Indies national team in Bangalore, highlighted the challenges for bowlers on the flat pitches. He stated that the conditions become significantly more difficult, especially when dew settles on the ground.
Challenges of Bowling on Flat Pitches
Morkel noted that the last two matches, which were played on drier surfaces, provided bowlers with little opportunity to execute their plans. He said: "The first thing we need to say is that the pitches have been incredibly flat, making it difficult for the bowlers. This is the reality of the conditions, and we have talked about it repeatedly. When there is dew, it becomes much harder to bowl."
This coach pointed out the immense pressure bowlers experience, especially in the second bowling phase with a wet ball, adding: "When you bowl well on these surfaces and the ball is wet, the pressure on the bowling unit increases significantly."
Pressure on Bowlers Against a Strong Batting Lineup
Morkel's remarks come as the T20I series between India and the West Indies has been highly aggressive, with total scores exceeding 200 making it very difficult to defend. He recalled the second T20I match in Ranchi, where the West Indies successfully chased down a target of 250 in 18.3 overs. Morkel acknowledged that defending such a total against the powerful West Indies batting lineup has been challenging.
He further mentioned the difficulties of bowling during the powerplay with fielding restrictions and emphasized that India needs to focus on improving their skills and execution to cope with aggressive conditions. Morkel said: "I was very worried even when we had 250 to defend. I knew we might struggle to execute our plans, especially against the aggressive West Indies attack."
The West Indies national team defeated India by 24 runs in the fourth match of the five-match series in Hyderabad, leveling the series at 2-2. The fifth and final match of this series will take place on October 17 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore.
