Last Updated:
Indian bowling coach Morne Morkel remains hopeful as England ends Day 4 of the fifth Test at 339/6, needing 35 more runs, saying not ready to throw in the towel yet.
IND vs ENG, 5th Test, Day 4: India’s players along with England’s Jamie Smith return to the pavilion (PTI)
Indian men’s cricket team bowling coach Morne Morkel has hope yet as England closed Day 4 of the fifth Test at 339/6 at The Oval on Sunday.
Jamie Smith (2) and Jamie Overton (0) were at the crease when rain and bad light stopped play, with the hosts needing just 35 more runs for a memorable victory and a 3-1 series win.
Chris Woakes, injured on Day 1 of the match and ruled out of the Test, was seen in his whites with a sling on his left shoulder, suggesting he might still come out to bat if needed.
England will have the option to use the roller on the last day if the five-match series for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, and they are likely to choose the heavy one before chasing the remaining runs.
Morkel said the series has been characterised by highs and lows, and it was no exception on the penultimate day as well. His team managed to break an important batting partnership, giving them some control, but the game was halted due to rain.
“The series had moments like that – up and down. We managed to break the partnership. Unfortunately, rain came in and we will come tomorrow,” Morne Morkel was quoted as saying after the end of the day’s play on Sunday.
He emphasised that the team must remain resilient even in challenging circumstances. Breaking partnerships and applying pressure on the opposition are crucial in Test cricket, and his team achieved that.
“You can’t afford to throw in the towel. Key was to break that partnership. Just create a bit of pressure,” he added.
Morkel also discussed the difficult weather and wet conditions, praising the ground staff for their excellent work in managing the field despite the constant interruptions. He acknowledged that the weather is beyond their control, and they have to accept it.
Looking ahead, Morkel hopes the bowlers will hit the right areas and maintain pressure. He mentioned that Akash did not bowl well today but could still deliver a game-changing spell. He expressed his happiness about Mohammed Siraj’s growing recognition, calling him a natural leader who consistently puts in full effort and sets the tone for the team with his energy and commitment.
“It’s pretty wet out there. Ground staff has been incredible with breaks and all… out of our control. Hopefully, boys get the ball in right areas,” Morkel said.
“Akash didn’t get right today, but hopefully, a magic spell. I am happy Siraj is getting recognition. Natural leader,” he added.
What Happened On Day 4 at The Oval?
Joe Root scored his 39th Test century and Harry Brook blasted his 10th as Root (105) and Brook (111) combined for a 195-run partnership for the fourth wicket, boosting England’s chase of 374.
For India, pacer Prasidh Krishna was the most successful bowler, taking three wickets.
(With inputs from Agencies)
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes on cricket content, ha… Read More
view comments
- Location :
London, United Kingdom (UK)
Read More
