India’s batting line-up in T20 cricket often showcases its explosive capabilities. However, as they prepare for a five-match T20I series against West Indies, the spotlight shifts to their bowling attack. With the renowned Jasprit Bumrah absent and the potential for runs aplenty on favourable pitches, the series presents significant challenges and opportunities for the Indian bowlers, particularly the promising seamers Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav.
Bowling coach Morne Morkel views this series as an important period to gauge India’s bowling development, especially with the T20 World Cup and the Los Angeles Olympics approaching in two years. Despite having more IPL than T20I experience, both Mayank and Prince are keen to cement their places in the squad.
“They are both young and are still learning their trade,” Morkel remarked. “Sometimes the challenge is that you have them for a small window of time and then they go away. Although we keep in touch and stay connected, it is hard to keep your personal touch as a bowling coach on them. Then they come back and we work on a couple of things. That is something we can try in the future to make better. I am excited to see how they go with this opportunity.”
Mayank is marking his second year since his debut, though injuries have limited him to just five more appearances since. He has worked on expanding his skills, now adding variations like a slower ball to keep batsmen guessing—a change that paid dividends in the IPL when he deceived Rohit Sharma.
Prince has quickly made his mark, thanks to his standout performances in IPL 2026, where his swinging deliveries and precise yorkers gained attention. Notably, a delivery that outclassed Virat Kohli highlighted his ability to challenge top-tier batsmen. Following his impressive IPL stint, he has featured in six T20Is and three ODIs.
Despite their potential, Morkel acknowledges the limited time spent with these bowlers due to ongoing multiple tours. The team coaching structure, with staff led by Gautam Gambhir in the UK while VVS Laxman took charge in Zimbabwe, complicates consistent mentorship.
“Mayank’s pace is his X-factor,” Morkel explained in Lucknow. “Seeing young players like him seize opportunities, despite setbacks, highlights their determination. For Prince, transitioning from an IPL net bowler to an India player signifies his progress. It’s crucial to have squad members with a fantastic attitude as they work tirelessly for the team.”
India’s broader strategy spans incorporating more bowling options, perhaps by relying on players such as Shivam Dube and Nitish Kumar Reddy, especially when conditions suit seamers. “We are going to keep asking those guys to work hard at training and nets,” Morkel added. “In certain conditions, the ball might grip more, making them effective four-over bowlers.”
Rotating openers for this series is also a consideration, with Sanju Samson and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vying to partner Abhishek Sharma. This decision impacts recent performances and player recovery post-Asian Games. “I am pretty sure Gautam will look to rotate them,” Morkel stated, emphasizing readiness and strategy post-travel.
Morkel advocates for fringe squad members like Sooryavanshi to learn by observing seasoned players, arguing that mingling within the squad provides invaluable insight. “If he is not getting that game time, he is still on a bus, in the dugout, in the hotel with guys with a lot of experience,” Morkel said. Observing and internalising top players’ preparation is crucial to their development.
During India’s recent optional training, Mayank, Prince, and emerging talents including Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Naman Dhir, and Nitish Kumar Reddy were seen sharpening their skills. Their enthusiasm aims to keep India’s undefeated record intact at the Ekana Stadium.
As the series against the West Indies unfolds, the form and growth of these budding seamers are pivotal to India’s aspirations, not just for the series but in the broader context of international competitions on the horizon.
