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Morne Morkel provides fitness update on Hardik Pandya and Abhishek Sharma ahead of Asia Cup final vs PAK
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has dispelled injury concerns surrounding key all-rounder Hardik Pandya and power-hitter Abhishek Sharma ahead of the high-stakes Asia Cup final against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday in Dubai.
The duo sparked concerns during India’s dominant victory over Sri Lanka on Friday, with both players leaving the field mid-match due to discomfort. Hardik Pandya, who bowled a fiery opening over, struck immediately by dismissing Kusal Mendis for a golden duck. However, he was soon seen clutching his left hamstring before walking off the field. He did not return for the remainder of the innings.
"So both of them were just struggling with cramps. Hardik, I know we'll assess sort of tonight and tomorrow morning, and we'll make a call on that. Abhishek is fine," Morkel said at the post-match press conference.
Abhishek Sharma, meanwhile, was also in visible discomfort during the ninth over of Sri Lanka's innings. The young left-hander was seen holding his right thigh while sprinting between fielding positions. He too remained off the field for the rest of the match. Morkel, meanwhile, said there will be no training on Saturday.
"I don't think there will be any training tomorrow. The key for the boys is to rest. They're in an ice bath already. The recovery started straight after the match. The best way to recover is sleep and stay off your feet. Hopefully they can get a good night's sleep."
"There will be individual pool sessions for the guys organised. Then some massages before they get mentally ready for the big battle on Sunday. It's a quick turnaround, and playing smart is going to be the key. There will certainly be no training," he said.
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