India vs England: Morne Morkel speaks about India's preparations

As the Indian cricket team intensifies its build-up to the five-match Test series against England, bowling coach Morne Morkel offered insights into the camp’s focus and preparation. With the high-stakes series set to begin soon, the team is currently undergoing a crucial phase of training, sharpening skills and finalising combinations ahead of the intra-squad match scheduled for June 13 between India and India A. Morkel, a former South African pacer now part of India’s coaching setup, commended the overall attitude and application shown by the players. He noted that the energy levels have been consistently high, and there is a strong sense of purpose within the group.

India vs England: Morne Morkel opens about India playing XI for the Test series

The training sessions, according to Morkel, have been both intense and productive, with a clear focus on adapting to English conditions and fine-tuning bowling strategies accordingly. He also praised the professionalism of the squad, particularly the younger players, who have shown great eagerness to learn and execute plans. With the intra-squad fixture serving as the only official warm-up before the first Test, Morkel believes it will be a critical opportunity for players to make their case for selection. The team management is looking to assess rhythm, fitness, and form before finalising the India playing XI.

The Indian team kickstarted its on-ground preparations for the England Test series on June 7 with a series of high-intensity training sessions aimed at sharpening skills and adjusting to local conditions. These sessions, held at the preparatory camp in Beckenham, are focused on more than just fitness and rhythm—they are also centred around building tactical awareness to counter England’s aggressive ‘Bazball’ approach that has redefined their Test cricket style in recent times.

Bowling coach Morne Morkel highlighted the importance of these early sessions, stating that the level of commitment and energy shown by the players has been very encouraging. With England known for their fearless batting under the leadership of Ben Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum, India’s bowlers are working on specific plans to contain and outsmart their opponents. Morkel emphasized that success in England demands not only skill but also adaptability and relentless focus over long periods.

The coaching staff, including head coach Gautam Gambhir, is closely monitoring the players' response to these sessions, especially in terms of how well they adjust their game to the unique demands of English pitches and weather. The groundwork being laid now could prove vital once the series gets underway on June 20 at Headingley.

🗣️🗣️ There's some quality energy in this group #TeamIndia Bowling Coach Morne Morkel previews the intra-squad match starting in Beckenham today 👌👌

WATCH 🎥🔽 #ENGvIND | @mornemorkel65

— BCCI (@BCCI) June 13, 2025

"The two day practice so far, conditions suited the fast bowlers. Early on the tour is very exciting, you know it gets their confidence going, you know it was testing for the batters which also in a way helps them to prepare for what's to come. I don't think the wickets is going to be as spicy as the ones we experience here. There's been a lot of good banter between bat and ball but I think it's only because the wickets are a little bit spicy," stated India's bowling coach Morne Morkel in a recent interview. 

India’s pace attack is expected to be a crucial factor in their upcoming Test series against England. With Jasprit Bumrah making his return to red-ball cricket after nearly six months, bowling coach Morne Morkel stressed the need to manage his workload carefully. Morkel highlighted the importance of gradually easing Bumrah in through multiple spells during the intra-squad practice match to help him regain rhythm and match fitness.

Supporting Bumrah will be a strong pace unit comprising Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna, all of whom bring different strengths to the table. These bowlers will form the core of India’s fast-bowling arsenal for the challenging English conditions. Additionally, the presence of seam-bowling all-rounders Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy provides the team with much-needed balance and flexibility. Their ability to contribute with both bat and ball could be vital in maintaining depth and versatility throughout the series.

The upcoming Test series against England marks the beginning of a new chapter for Indian cricket, with Shubman Gill stepping into the role of full-time Test captain. Following the recent retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin, the team is entering a transitional phase, placing faith in a younger core to carry the legacy forward. This series not only represents a fresh leadership era but also signals the start of India’s campaign in the 2025–27 World Test Championship cycle. After falling short of reaching the final in the previous edition, the team will be determined to make a strong statement early in the new cycle. With a blend of promising youngsters and experienced campaigners, India will aim to find the right balance and build momentum.