Morne Morkel Impressed by Bumrah’s Rhythm Ahead of England Test Series

India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has heaped praise on pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, expressing his amazement at the fast bowler’s rhythm during the team’s net sessions in the lead-up to the first Test against England. After a long injury layoff, Bumrah’s return to red-ball cricket has generated palpable excitement within the Indian camp.

The 31-year-old pacer was a standout performer in India’s historic Test series win in Australia last year, claiming 32 wickets. However, a back injury cut short his campaign and ruled him out of the final day’s play in Sydney, as well as the subsequent Champions Trophy. Bumrah only recently returned to competitive cricket in the IPL, where his workload was restricted to four-over spells.

While head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Bumrah would be managed carefully and feature in only three Tests during the England tour, Morkel couldn’t hide his admiration for the bowler’s intensity and sharpness in the nets.

"Bumrah knows how to get himself ready, he knows how to prepare," Morkel said on Wednesday. "I was blown away by the energy he generated with the ball over the past three days. That’s exciting to see. I’m happy with how his body is shaping up."

Morkel emphasized that while workload management remains crucial, Bumrah’s form with the Dukes ball in practice has given the team a massive boost.

Nitish Reddy’s All-Round Potential in Focus

India’s bowling balance remains a key discussion point, especially with Bumrah back in the mix. One player who could play a pivotal supporting role is young all-rounder Nitish Reddy. The 21-year-old made headlines with a Boxing Day century during the Australia tour, showcasing his growing stature.

However, India used Reddy sparingly with the ball, giving him just 44 overs across five Tests — a strategy that left frontline quicks Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj shouldering the bulk of the bowling, with 151.2 and 157.1 overs respectively.

Morkel is keen to see Reddy take on a larger bowling role in England’s seaming conditions.

"The more bowling options we have, the better," he said. "Nitish is skillful — he’s someone who can deliver that magical ball. For him, it’s about consistency, and that’s something we’re working on. I’ve challenged him to bowl more. We all know what he brings with the bat, but in these conditions, his bowling could be a real asset."

Eyes on Match Fitness Ahead of Series Opener

Morkel also stressed the importance of match readiness, particularly in England where the conditions — including heavy outfields and cooler weather — can test even the fittest athletes.

“It’s vital to find a way to reach match fitness quickly,” Morkel noted. “You can tick boxes in the nets, but nothing replaces time on the field. We need to adapt quickly.”

India will get a chance to ramp up their preparations with an intra-squad practice match in Beckenham from June 13 to 16, featuring players from both the senior Test squad and the India ‘A’ team. The squad will then move to Leeds for the opening Test of the five-match series, beginning June 20 at Headingley.