Ahmedabad, February 20: India’s fielding has emerged as a significant concern in the T20 World Cup 2026. Under the captaincy of Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian team has dropped a total of nine catches during the group stage. Bowling coach Morné Morkel believes the team urgently needs to address this weakness.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Super 8 match against South Africa on Sunday, Morkel acknowledged that poor fielding and catching could lead to missed opportunities in crucial matches.
“This is a valid concern. We need to focus on our fielding the most. Good fielding can save us two runs and prevent boundaries. Catching will play a critical role in the tournament’s final phase. No catch is easy, and all players are working hard on this,” he stated.
Morkel emphasized that catching difficult balls in high-pressure matches can change the game’s outcome. Securing spectacular catches can disrupt the rhythm of the batting team.
So far, India’s fielding has been under scrutiny in the tournament. After the group stage, India ranks second for the most dropped catches, with only Ireland having dropped more, totaling ten catches.
Despite this, the Indian team has secured victories in all four matches, earning a spot in the Super 8. India’s group has been dubbed the “Group of Death,” as all teams have remained unbeaten in the tournament. The first match of the second round will see India face South Africa on February 22 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
– Shubham/PK