'Didn't expect it to...': Morne Morkel on Kolkata Test pitch
What's the story
India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has expressed surprise at the rapid deterioration of the Eden Gardens pitch during the ongoing Test match against South Africa. The unexpected turn of events led to a flurry of wickets falling for both teams, despite good run-scoring in the initial hours. India resumed their innings at 37/1 but were bundled out for a paltry 189. SA perished for 159 in the first innings.
Pitch surprise
Eden Gardens pitch caught us off guard: Morkel
Morkel admitted that the Indian dressing room was not prepared for the rapid wear and tear of the Eden Gardens track. "To be honest with you, even we did not expect a wicket to deteriorate so quickly," he said. The former South African cricketer emphasized that this unpredictability is what makes playing in India difficult. "You need to be able to adapt and react to conditions quite quickly," he added.
Strategy
India rely on seam and spin to tackle pitch
Despite the unpredictable behavior of the Eden Gardens track, Morkel highlighted that India had prepared to play to their strengths. "We have got quality with seam and spin... we cover both bases," he said. The former pacer revealed that India had assessed the pitch as a 'good surface' and focused on their plans to attack the Proteas batting order.
Day 2
15 wickets fall on Day 2
A magical spell from star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has seemingly put India on the verge of a massive win in the ongoing Test series opener. His four-wicket haul meant SA, in their second innings, were 93/7 at stumps on Day 2. As they lead by just 63 runs, India look all set to prevail on Day 3. As many as 15 wickets fell on Day 2.