Indian team celebrates during the Asia Cup match between India and Bangladesh at Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on September 24, 2025.
| Photo Credit: AP
Asia Cup 2025 has been flawless in terms of results for India, but bowling coach Morne Morkel believes the team still hasn’t delivered a “complete performance” ahead of the highly anticipated final against Pakistan in Dubai.
India preserved their unbeaten record with a thrilling Super Over win against Sri Lanka in the last Super Four match on Friday. Despite the victory, Morkel stressed that Suryakumar Yadav’s men have plenty of areas to improve, especially with the T20 World Cup defence looming early next year.
“I don’t think we’ve played the complete game in this tournament so far. After every match, we’ve had discussions on areas to improve. We’re by no means the finished article,” Morkel told reporters after the match.
India Tested Without Bumrah
India posted 202/5 with Abhishek Sharma’s fluent half-century and contributions from Tilak Varma and Sanju Samson. But in Jasprit Bumrah’s absence — he was rested — Sri Lanka fought back strongly, driven by Pathum Nissanka’s brilliant century, forcing the game into a Super Over.
Morkel admitted such situations, though frustrating, were valuable learning opportunities.
“The more we find ourselves in sticky situations and execute well, the more this group will grow. There’s a bigger picture in mind,” he said.
Also Read: Suryakumar Keeps Calm Ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup Final
Quick Recovery Ahead of Final
With just a day’s turnaround before Sunday’s summit clash against Pakistan, recovery has become the top priority for the squad.
“The best way to recover is to sleep, stay off your feet, and get massages. It’s about being mentally fresh for a big battle. Playing it smart is going to be key,” Morkel noted.
India, unbeaten in the tournament, will now look to extend their dominance over Pakistan in the final, but Morkel’s comments underline that the team is still chasing perfection.
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Who wouldnt love Morkels post-match honesty? Not the finished article? Sounds like a polite way of saying, Were still a bit clueless and probably need more caffeine! 😄 Indias dominance is great, but Morkels right – we need to handle those pressure cooker moments (like the Bumrah-less Super Over) without melting down. And recovery? Sleep, stay off your feet, massages? Sounds suspiciously like a plan for the actual final game against Pakistan! Maybe Morkel is secretly plotting a nap during the match? 🤔 Great insights, mate! Keep those witty takeaways coming!act two ai free