Arshdeep has predominantly been a T20I format specialist for India.
Speaking to reporters on the eve of the third T20I against New Zealand in Wellington, Morkel revealed that the team management is actively looking to build a robust pool of backup pace options specifically suited for the distinct, seam-friendly conditions expected during the two-Test series in Wellington and Christchurch.
Arshdeep has predominantly been a shortest format specialist for India and is just two wickets away from becoming the country’s first-ever bowler to reach the milestone of 150 T20I wickets. With 30 wickets in 18 ODIs, the left-arm quick has shown promise in a longer format, but is yet to make his official Test debut.
"We are sort of planning, you know, a group of bowlers that we would like to potentially stay behind as cover (for Tests) because of the schedule. I also think closer to the time, once we get a better understanding of the conditions at this time of the year, you know, we will get a clear picture in terms of the makeup of our bowling unit," Morkel told reporters.
"So at the moment, on paper, in the back of our minds, there are a nice group of bowlers that can suit all the conditions, and Arshdeep is definitely in that conversation. And yeah, I mean, in terms of that, he is a guy who always, you know, works hard. He ticks all the boxes. So if needed with the red ball, I am pretty sure, you know, you will be fine," he added.
Arshdeep missed a potential Test debut during India's tour of England last year after sustaining an impact injury to his left thumb during a training session. The 27-year-old has played 24 first-class matches so far, claiming 73 wickets at an average of 30.71, including two five-wicket hauls.
India's bowler workload management plan is "bulletproof," according to Morkel, who confirmed that the coaching staff has meticulously mapped out rotations across the five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Tests in New Zealand.
"I am pretty sure you're aware there are a couple of guys playing in the India A getting ready for red-ball cricket. In the 50 overs, we will also rotate and give guys, you know, the game time that is needed, we felt for the Test matches. So I think we have got a— I am gonna touch wood— a bulletproof plan at the moment in terms of how we have mapped everything out," the bowling stated.
"But, you know, unfortunately, not everything always goes according to plan. So the backup we have got and the combinations we have got are all in place and ready in terms of rotation and making sure when we get ready for that first Test and for the 50 overs, everybody is ready. That is including (Jasprit) Bumrah all the way down," he further remarked.
Among pacers in the T20I squad, Arshdeep is a part of the ODI squad. Other fast bowlers like Anshul Kamboj and Akash Deep, who are a part of the Test squad, are currently playing for India A in the unofficial Test series against New Zealand A.
(With ANI Inputs)