Nitish Reddy is competing with Shardul Thakur for the seam-bowling all-rounder spot.
Having slammed a Test century against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 at MCG, Reddy is competing with the experienced Shardul Thakur for the seam-bowling all-rounder spot in the playing XI.
Following Reddy's 26.5 overs in two unofficial Tests against England Lions, Morkel has "challenged" him to expand his bowling responsibilities.
"I think he (Reddy) is skilful. He is a guy who can bowl that magical ball. So for him, it is about creating that consistency, and that's something we want to work on. It's important for his game as well," Morkel said on the sidelines of India's training session, as quoted by PTI.
"I've had conversations with him where I've challenged him to bowl a bit more. I want to see the ball more in his hands. We all know what he can do with the bat. But for a team, if you can have those bowling options, especially in these conditions, I think he'll be one to be excited and compliment his bowling at that," the bowling coach added.
When quizzed about the selection between Reddy and Shardul for the series opener at Headingley, Morkel remained diplomatic. "In terms of the balance, we've got very happy with that. But for us as a bowling unit, finding that gear that we're going to need in Test matches is going to be important."
Morkel expressed confidence in the comprehensive nature of India's squad selection. He emphasized the importance of regaining Test match fitness, noting the extended period without Test cricket and the specific challenges of English conditions.
"I think in terms of that we cover, like you say, all the bases. But for us now, the key thing is to get Test match fit, ready, that sharpness, to get that back. We haven't played Test matches for a while now," he remarked. "In England, the conditions can suit you, and it's overcast, but still it's going to be good surfaces. I think we're going to be testing that."
Commenting on the upcoming four-day warm-up match against India A, Morkel expressed interest in observing the players' performance.
"I think that's one of the things that has impressed me so much in these two-day sessions we've had. The guys sort of stepped up by themselves. They've taken that ownership, that responsibility, and realising that it's going to be a tough tour," he added. "I think that's the pleasing thing as coaches, to see guys taking that leadership and ownership in practice."
Morkel noted the demanding nature of English outfields and weather conditions, stressing the importance of quick adaptation to match fitness requirements.
Morkel was pleased with the players' initiative during training sessions. He also dismissed concerns regarding Jasprit Bumrah's limited match practice.
"He (Bumrah) knows how to get himself ready. He knows how to prepare. And like you say, I was blown away to see the energy in the ball the last three days. So that's very exciting to see happy 'Boom'," he stated.
"I'm just happy his body is in good shape at the moment and we'll manage him with that. And we'll be smart with him because he's obviously key for us."