Arshdeep is experienced, understands we are trying different combinations - Morkel

Arshdeep Singh has played only three T20Is since the five-match series against England earlier this year with one of those appearances coming against Australia on Sunday in Hobart. The left-arm quick bagged the Player of the Match award after a scintillating spell of 3 for 35 in the third T20I. But with appearances coming in few and far between, India's bowling coach Morne Morkel said that Arshdeep is aware that the team are trying out different combinations with the T20 World Cup less than 100 days away.

"I think Arshdeep is experienced, he understands that there is also a bigger picture where we are trying different combinations," Morkel said. "He knows he is a world-class bowler, he has taken the most wickets for us in the PowerPlay, so we know how valuable he is to the team. But for us on the day, on this tour, it is also just to have a look at other combinations and he understands that."

With a wide pool of players to choose from for the upcoming global event, Morkel said it is not easy in terms of selection, and players will be left disappointed. "There will always be disappointment in terms of selection, but that is something at times that as a player is uncontrollable."

"For us, from our side (team management's perspective), we just keep on asking them to work hard and try hard and be ready for when they do get the opportunity. And like you said, there are limited games now leading into the T20 World Cup, so it is important for us to see how guys can react in certain situations under pressure, otherwise it will be unknown for us."

With the T20 World Cup around the corner, Morkel felt it was paramount that no stone was left unturned and felt that playing with different options will help the team identify how certain players handle pressure in different situations. He also emphasised on the team being adaptable.

"You need to have options available. I think every team, if you look across the world, are playing around with options. Yes, we will probably know one or two combinations that we set, but I think in this game you need to be adaptable. You need to know where certain players can give you options in different roles.

"And I think with a world cup around the corner, you do not want to leave any stones unturned. You do not want to sit two years down the line and say, if only we tried that or give this combination a bit more time, it would have developed. So yes, I think it is about playing it smartly."

Morkel also provided an update on Nitish Kumar Reddy who was injured for the first three T20Is after a neck spasm hindered his recovery from a quadriceps injury. "He did all his work that was needed or expected of him today, fielding, batting, bowling and he ticked all of that. So we will find out now after the assessment where he is at."