In his prediction that their struggling opener Abhishek Sharma would soon be back among the runs, bowling coach Morne Morkel stated on Friday that India’s bowlers will aim for early wickets against South Africa.
The teams will play each other in the Super Eights in Ahmedabad on Sunday in what he described as a “mouth-watering” replay of the T20 World Cup final that India won two years ago.
“We know that their top order gives them that momentum, with Quinton (de Kock) and Aiden (Markram) up front in good form and hitting the ball very well. We will definitely put our best foot forward to try and get those early wickets,” AFP quoted the former South Africa quick bowler Morkel as saying.
Both teams had perfect records and topped their respective groups. Although Markram’s South Africa has been formidable in every way, tournament favorites India have struggled with batting consistency, as Abhishek has recorded three straight ducks, but the left-hander, according to Morkel, is only one inning away from returning to the zone.
About Abhishek’s three ducks, Morkel said, “Absolutely no discussion in our team group about that. He is a world-class player. We are going to a very important phase of the World Cup now and I am sure he is going to deliver. I am pretty sure he is hitting the ball in the nets. It is just a matter of getting the start and getting the innings going.”
South Africa has been one of the T20 World Cup’s top sides thus far, according to Morkel.
“They are a team that’s full of confidence. They have got guys at the top who are in form. In terms of weaknesses there aren’t many,” said Morkel.
In two nerve-wracking super overs against Afghanistan, South Africa emerged victorious, demonstrating courage when necessary.
“For us it comes down, on the day, to how well we execute with the bat and the ball. It’s going to be world-class players against each other. It is going to be a mouth-watering thing,” said Morkel of defending champions India.
