‘They Need to Work Hard’: Morkel Highlights Value of All-Rounders Ahead of Asia Cup 2025

India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, recently emphasized the crucial role of all-rounders as the team prepares for the Asia Cup 2025. He highlighted how these players add balance to the squad by contributing in both batting and bowling, which can make a significant difference in key matches. With India beginning their campaign against the UAE on September 10 in Dubai, Morkel believes that all-rounders will play a pivotal role in helping the team adapt to changing conditions and handle high-pressure situations effectively.

India enters the Asia Cup as one of the favorites, having performed strongly in previous multi-nation tournaments, including the ICC Champions Trophy earlier this year, also held in Dubai. However, Morkel pointed out that conditions are likely to be different this time. The pitches are expected to be fresher and greener, which may impact team selection. While spinners were essential in the Champions Trophy, India may now opt for a more balanced lineup, making the presence of all-rounders like Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel even more critical.

“For me, it’s important to see Shivam Dube as someone who can bowl all four overs. I always encourage all-rounders to work hard on both batting and bowling. Sometimes players focus only on one skill during practice, but here we don’t want to miss anything. On match day, we’ll need someone ready to step up and get the job done,” Morkel told the media. His comments underline how the coaching staff values versatility and preparedness in every player, particularly in tournaments where every game can be decisive.

Morkel also discussed the importance of developing part-time bowlers in the team. He explained that batters who can bowl give the team more flexibility and create additional options in team selection. This allows the team to adjust combinations according to match situations and conditions. “Yes, we have our main players who can perform well. But if we keep developing other players and part-timers to do specific jobs, it gives us more options for team selection and combinations. It’s important that once players have these skills, they continue practicing every day to improve and get better,” he added. This approach ensures that India has depth in both batting and bowling, which is essential for long tournaments like the Asia Cup.

The coach also addressed concerns regarding India’s lack of recent T20 matches, expressing confidence that the team is ready for the challenge. “I think that’s a good point. For us, the focus is on working hard in training and keeping the intensity high. Once players put on the Indian jersey, it’s all about preparing for the match. I’m confident that when they step onto the field, they will be ready to perform well and give their best for the team,” Morkel said. His words highlight the team’s focus on discipline, preparation, and consistency, which are key factors in performing well in high-stakes games.

India’s group stage matches in the Asia Cup 2025 will be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where the team will face the UAE, Pakistan, and Oman. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Four stage, which will decide the finalists. With the help of all-rounders, balanced team combinations, and consistent preparation, India aims to adapt to pitch conditions, execute strategies effectively, and perform at their best in every match.

In conclusion, Morne Morkel’s focus on all-rounders reflects India’s strategy to build a versatile, adaptable squad capable of handling pressure situations. By emphasizing the importance of both batting and bowling skills, developing part-time bowlers, and maintaining high training intensity, India hopes to secure strong performances throughout the Asia Cup and aim for the title. With experienced all-rounders and emerging talents working together, India enters the tournament ready to face any challenge on the field.