Arshdeep Singh Poised for Test Call‑up as Morkel Signals New Zealand Planning

India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has opened the door for left‑arm pace bowler Arshdeep Singh to make his Test debut on the upcoming tour of New Zealand. Morkel explained that the team is assembling a group of bowlers as potential back‑up options for the two red‑ball matches slated for Wellington and Christchurch. While Arshdeep has cemented his status as a leading T20I performer, he has yet to appear in Test cricket despite solid domestic performances in the longer format.

Arshdeep marked his 100th T20I appearance by taking two wickets in India’s second match against New Zealand at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The 25‑year‑old medium‑fast bowler is just two wickets shy of becoming India’s first bowler to reach 150 T20I wickets. His expertise lies in the shortest format, but his domestic record has showcased his capability at the next level.

“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 said as quoted by NDTV Sports.

Arshdeep in conversation for Test cricket

In ODIs, Arshdeep has claimed 30 wickets across 18 matches, including a five‑wicket haul, underscoring his ability to perform at the international level in the 50‑over format. Domestically, he has taken 73 wickets in 24 red‑ball matches at an average of 30.71, with four‑wicket hauls and two five‑wicket innings, his best figures being 6 for 40. These statistics highlight his readiness for Test cricket.

Morkel praised Arshdeep, noting that he “ticks all the boxes” for Test selection. The bowling coach emphasized that the pacer’s work ethic and solid domestic record make him a viable option should a Test vacancy arise during the tour.

“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,” Morkel said.

Contingency plans and squad rotation strategy

India’s planning for the New Zealand tour includes a comprehensive rotation strategy across T20Is, ODIs and Tests. Morkel revealed that India A players are also being groomed for red‑ball cricket, ensuring depth for all formats. He expressed confidence in a “bulletproof” plan that balances workloads and prepares every player for potential duties.

“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,” Morkel said.

Morkel stressed that the plan remains flexible, with backup combinations and rotation strategies ready for unforeseen circumstances. He noted that all bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah, are prepared for any shift in the bowling line‑up.

“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,” Morkel said.

Arshdeep was selected for both the T20I and ODI squads for the New Zealand tour, which kicks off with five T20Is and five ODIs from November 4, leading into the Test series beginning November 19. Among the pace options, he remains the only bowler included in both the T20I and ODI sets, highlighting his versatility and importance to India’s tour plans.

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