'The boys reacted to the conditions' - Morne Morkel on India's inexperienced bowlers getting job done in Auckland

At Eden Park in Auckland on November 4, 2026, India secured a five-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first ODI of the series. Chasing a target of 143 under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method, the visitors completed their chase in 22.4 overs with controlled batting and disciplined bowling throughout the match.

Morne Morkel, India's bowling coach, reflected on how the team's attack adapted to the conditions on the day. Morkel emphasised how India's bowlers responded to the match situation and environmental factors at the venue. He highlighted the importance of adapting to what the ground presented while maintaining discipline in line and length.

"The boys reacted to the conditions. It's quite a rush, after the toss again to get ourselves going. But for me, just sort of, just taking the dimensions out, and the guys just executed the plan quite well, which is pretty good. I think over here in New Zealand, sometimes the fields will tell you what to bowl, but still you need to get the ball in the right areas," Morkel said.

A former South Africa fast bowler who represented his country across 86 Tests, 117 ODIs and 44 T20Is during a 12-year international career, Morkel took charge of India's bowling unit following his appointment to the role. The coaching staff worked quickly after the toss to prepare the team's bowling strategy, and the execution of that plan proved effective in restricting New Zealand's scoring.

How did Morkel assess India's bowling execution?

The victory gave India a 1-0 lead in the ODI series as the teams prepared for the remaining matches of the tour. Anshul Kamboj earned the Player of the Match award for his contribution to India's successful chase and bowling effort. The win demonstrated the effectiveness of India's bowling strategy in the challenging conditions at the Auckland venue, with the team's ability to adjust their approach proving decisive in restricting New Zealand's scoring and securing the opening match of the series.