Just days before the beginning of the ICC Champions Trophy, Team India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel needed to fly back home from Dubai because of the death of his father. Morkel reached Dubai with the opposite members of the Indian team on February 15 and was a part of many training sessions within the Middle Eastern region. But, the South African wasn’t an element of the team’s rehearsal on Monday. It was later reported that the previous Proteas fast bowler was preparing to return home because of the unexpected development.
Morkel’s return schedule will not be yet confirmed, as per Dainik Jagran, and his absence is certain to affect Team India’s hopes of winning the Champions Trophy. India are scheduled to start their ICC Champions Trophy campaign against Bangladesh on February 20.
A Glimpse Into Team India’s Preparations
Gearing up for the finisher’s role, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul worked on his big-hitting skills because the Indian team trained for the second time on Monday ahead of their Champions Trophy opener against Bangladesh.
Rahul, typically known for his technical approach, appeared to shift gears as he focused on playing aggressive shots.
With Rishabh Pant pushing for a spot within the playing XI, the 32-year-old appeared to embrace a more proactive, power-hitting mindset.
Rahul, who scored a quick-fire 40 off 29 balls within the third ODI against England, was seen clearing the ropes with ease, practicing sixes off almost every delivery.
Set to bat at No 5 or 6, Rahul’s role will probably be crucial in the ultimate overs, where he might must speed up the innings from the outset and he could possibly be seen practicing range-hitting in the course of the high-intensity session.
Shreyas Iyer, who has displayed aggressive batting within the recent series, also worked on his power game.
Opener Shubman Gill, fresh from a Player-of-the-Series performance within the ODIs against England with scores of 87, 60, and 112, looked in sublime touch with a spread of chic strokes, including crisp drives and pulls.
India skipper Rohit Sharma, who returned to form with a scintillating 119 within the second ODI against England, also looked sharp, practicing late cuts and delicate touch shots.
India’s batting mainstay Virat Kohli, who showed signs of regaining form after hitting a 52 within the third ODI, also hung out honing his skills. He looked confident as he was middling the ball and tried to play late.
With PTI Inputs
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