India bowling coach Morne Morkel offers unique wind advice ahead of Wellington Test

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has suggested that Test specialists prepare for Wellington's notoriously strong winds by standing near a powerful fan at home before arriving in New Zealand.

India is scheduled to play a two-match Test series against New Zealand following the ongoing T20I and ODI series. The first Test is scheduled to begin at the Basin Reserve in Wellington on November 18. Currently, the Indian limited-overs squad is in Wellington, where wind speeds reportedly reached 120 kmph on Monday, causing the hotel building to shake.

Preparing for Windy Wellington

• Coach's Advice: Morne Morkel advised players still in India to practice near a strong fan to simulate the challenging conditions.
• Potential Impacts: Morkel noted that the strong winds could affect various aspects of play, including a batter's stance and crease position.
• Tour Context: The bowling coach emphasized facing the challenge head-on without making excuses, drawing on his own playing experience in South Africa.

Opposition Perspective and Verification

New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell acknowledged that the open nature of the Basin Reserve presents distinct wind challenges compared to enclosed stadiums, noting that visiting teams often face adjustment hurdles. Fans can verify official match schedules and squad announcements through the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and New Zealand Cricket (NZC) official channels.