India Intensifies Preparations for Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Morkel Praises Siraj
With the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy just around the corner, the Indian cricket team has been engaged in rigorous training sessions to fine-tune their skills. Last week, the team underwent an intense training regimen at the WACA in Perth, Australia.
In addition to net practice and drills, the players participated in simulation matches to simulate the challenges they will face in the upcoming series. The training sessions were not without their lighter moments, as bowling coach Morne Morkel was captured on camera showering praise and affection on premier pacer Mohammed Siraj.
During a training session, Siraj playfully interrupted a conversation between Morkel and another player. Morkel, recognizing Siraj’s presence, immediately engaged him in the discussion. He heaped praise on Siraj’s bowling abilities, highlighting his aggressive mindset and leadership qualities.
“This man (Siraj) is a legend,” Morkel exclaimed. “He’s got a big heart, aggressive mindset, one of the leaders of the attack, and I am very excited to see how he goes in this tour. Last tour, he was the go-to man in tough situations, and we’re excited to see more of that senior role coming out in him on a very important tour.”
However, the Indian team suffered a setback during practice when top-order batter Shubman Gill sustained a fracture while fielding. Gill has been ruled out of the first Test in Perth. The team received some positive news when injured opener KL Rahul, who had been sidelined with an elbow injury, returned to the nets on Sunday and is expected to play in the first Test.
Regular skipper Rohit Sharma will miss the first Test due to a thumb injury but is expected to join the team ahead of the second game in Adelaide.
