By Trisha Ghosal in London
On a day when Harry Brook and Joe Root threatened to take the game away from India in one devastating session and a half, the Indian bowlers clawed their way back as the clouds gathered and the ball finally started to talk.
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel walked into the press conference with mixed emotions — pleased with the way the seamers responded under overcast skies, but well aware that England are just 35 runs away from sealing the Test. With the match finely poised and a four-wicket shootout likely to decide it all tomorrow morning, Morkel fielded questions on the second new ball, Mohammed Siraj’s spell after tea, and whether Chris Woakes will come out to bat.
“We’ll reflect on selection calls”: Morkel hints at fourth seamer rethink
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel acknowledged the strain placed on India’s three-man pace attack and didn’t rule out a post-series review of their selection template. With Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, and Prasidh Krishna shouldering the fast-bowling burden through long spells, the absence of a fourth specialist quick has repeatedly come into question.
“We felt an extra batter was the way to go looking at the first three days,” said Morkel. “Our fourth seamer hasn’t been a frontline one either. But yes, those are discussions we’ll definitely reflect on after the series.”
Siraj’s steel stands out: “He leads with actions, not words”
Asked about Siraj’s tireless spells despite heavy overs across the series, Morkel was full of praise. “Siraj has been outstanding. He’s a natural leader — doesn’t say much, but his actions drive the group. Whether it’s an extra spell or charging up the crowd when things are flat, he lifts us.”
Morkel added that Siraj had insisted on playing this Test despite the workload: “He just said, ‘I want to play this match, I want to win it for the team.’ That’s the kind of attitude that wins Tests.”
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Prasidh’s clutch spell brings belief
On Prasidh Krishna’s crucial burst that removed Root and reignited India’s hopes, Morkel credited the seamer’s growing confidence. “From the first Test to now, Prasidh’s consistency has improved. He has that extra bounce, and every spell now looks like he could produce something special.”
On the rain and bad light: “Out of our control”
With England needing just 35 more runs and India four wickets away, the fourth day ended with rain and fading light. Morkel remained diplomatic about the stoppage. “It’s part of Test cricket. The outfield was wet, and that’s a safety call. We’ll just make sure the boys warm up well and are ready tomorrow.”
Fatigue visible, but Akash Deep still backed
With noticeable dip in Akash Deep’s pace, Morkel admitted it wasn’t his day. “It’s been a long series. He gives 100% every time he runs in. Today he didn’t quite get it right, but hopefully, he can find something tomorrow.”
“Happy to finally get Root”: A sigh of relief
Root’s sublime century kept India under pressure, and Morkel couldn’t hide his relief when India finally dismissed him. “Joe’s given us sleepless nights. So yes, I was very happy when we got him out.”
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