Morne Morkel heaps praise on ‘gem of a cricket player’ Mohsin Khan | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Former South African pacer Morne Morkel has expressed high praise for uncapped Indian left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan, calling him a “gem of a bowler” and emphasising the importance of nurturing him for the future. Morkel, who serves as the bowling coach of the Lucknow Super Giants, expressed his excitement about Khan’s return to fitness and availability for selection.
“I’m just excited that he’s fit now and available for selection,” Morkel said, acknowledging the significance of Khan’s progress in his career. He further added, “For him, moving forward in his career is a big step.”

Morkel commended Khan’s remarkable composure and calmness during his comeback, despite the challenges he faced. “To come back without any cricket at all and with a handful of training sessions, and then play the IPL where the margins are so small, to show that composure and calmness was pleasing,” Morkel remarked.
Impressed by Khan’s inspiring journey, Morkel highlighted the magnitude of his achievements after overcoming a severe injury. “I’m very impressed with Mohsin. He almost lost his arm due to the injury, being a year out of the game and coming back bowling an over like that has been inspirational,” Morkel stated.
Recognizing Khan’s potential and the impact he can have on Indian cricket, Morkel emphasised the need to support and protect him. “It’s exciting not just for our franchise but for Indian cricket. They have got a real gem of a cricket player and somebody they need to look after,” Morkel asserted.

Additionally, Morkel praised the leadership qualities of Krunal Pandya, the stand-in captain for the Lucknow Super Giants. He described Pandya as an exceptional leader who leads from the front and performs crucially under pressure. “He is a guy who can mix well with the team. He’s a strong leader. You need a strong, powerful leader in the knockout stages because there are going to be moments that are going to be crucial,” Morkel commented.
As a former player under the leadership of Gautam Gambhir, Morkel recognized Gambhir’s invaluable experience and understanding of the game. “Gauti’s (Gambhir) experience is very helpful in the dressing room, especially in reading the conditions,” Morkel acknowledged. He also expressed his willingness to share his own experiences as a bowler, hoping that their collective knowledge and insights would contribute to the team’s victory.

Overall, Morkel’s admiration for Mohsin Khan’s talent and resilience, along with his praise for Krunal Pandya’s leadership skills, highlights the aspirations and determination of the Lucknow Super Giants as they strive for success in the IPL.
(With inputs from PTI)