India’s changing bowling line-ups in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand may look like routine rotation but there is much more thought behind it. According to India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel, the idea is not only to manage workload but also to stay unpredictable ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.
Speaking on Tuesday, January 27, a day before the fourth T20I against New Zealand, Morne Morkel explained that India deliberately used different bowling combinations across the first three matches. Key bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and lead spinner Varun Chakravarthy were rested at different points, not because they lacked form but because the team wanted to explore options.
Morne Morkel said India currently has a group of bowlers who can handle pressure in any situation. As the World Cup approaches, the team wants to test multiple combinations so that opponents cannot easily read their plans. He stressed that India does not want rival teams entering the tournament with fixed strategies against their bowling attack. If teams are unsure who will bowl when and how India will use its resources, it gives India a clear advantage.
The coach added that the rotation has also helped players grow into specific roles. Giving bowlers chances in different situations allows them to gain confidence and understand what is expected from them when it matters the most.
Another major reason behind this approach is the variety of conditions India will face during the T20 World Cup. Morne Morkel pointed out that matches could be played in places as different as New Delhi, Mumbai and Colombo. Each venue offers unique pitch and weather conditions, which means India will need flexible game plans. Having a bowling attack full of quality options gives the team the freedom to adjust according to conditions and match-ups on the day.
Morne Morkel also highlighted the importance of choosing bowlers based on the batters they are facing, rather than sticking to a fixed formula. This adaptability, he said, is a strength that can only be developed by giving players exposure now.
The presence of all-rounders Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya has further helped India experiment. Their ability to contribute with both bat and ball allows the team to juggle bowling combinations without weakening the overall balance.
Looking ahead, Morne Morkel said India’s goal is to build strong bowling partnerships and push opposition teams deep into trouble early. Ideally, India wants teams six, seven or even eight wickets down by the 15th or 16th over. With what he described as “11 match winners”, India is in a comfortable position.
He concluded by saying that while every player brings a unique X factor, clear communication about roles is key. At the same time, no one is guaranteed a spot in the playing eleven, a message that keeps competition high and standards sharp as India builds towards the World Cup.
