For the Royal Challengers Bangalore, the picture has changed and dramatically so. This season, unlike the 2019 Indian Premier League when they finished last, sees the Virat Kohli-led side sitting right on top of the IPL points table along with Delhi Capitals.
One thing in common between the two current table toppers is the nature of their bowling attack—a mix of experience and youth; varied and with a lot of verve. RCB's rich pace bowling is led by the seasoned campaigner Dale Steyn, who is spear heading fellow Proteas teammate and good friend Chris Morris, along with young Navdeep Saini, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav and all rounder Shivam Dube (who is also being mentored by Steyn under RCB's mentorship programme).
Speaking about what has been working right for RCB this season, bowling all-rounder Chris Morris said the team does its homework well before each game and has clarity on roles. This, he says, is what has seen it come to being just a single game away from sealing a berth in the play-offs.
His 4-16 vs Rajasthan Royals and miserly 0-16 against KKR have been standout spells in the matches he played this season—but what has stood out is his ability to deliver in death overs, both with the bat and ball. Here are his thoughts from an interaction on IPL 2020—a season he is really enjoying a lot not just because of the team he is playing for also because of the reduced travel (perks of which including access to a private beach, a pool and barbecues courtesy the RCB management who have made playing in the bio bubble really "cool").
Q) On working with fellow Proteas Dale Steyn: What learnings do you take from the veteran bowler?
A) I have been with him for quite a few years now. We have had quite a few conversations regarding bowling. For me, it’s not the stuff that we talk about on the field; its the stuff we talk about off it which has been important. For a guy who has been doing it almost from the age of 20 and being 37 now...to still be able to do what he does is incredible. The stuff he brings to the team is invaluable.
Q) Your thoughts on Mohd. Siraj's spell vs KKR?
You don’t often see something like that in any game especially if its a T20. The way he got back— had quite a tough game last time, got hit couple of times—the captain showed the confidence to bring him back in the game. To see him execute what he can do—he is never scared of trying anything. He is a good companion to have on the team.
Q) At this stage, you guys have nearly secured a place in the play-offs. What are RCB's expectations from the next four games?
Until we actually walk in, I think the play-offs are not secured. I’ve played enough to think so. Our first port of call is to win the next game. The next one will be a tough one. We take it step by step, not look too far ahead in future. Obviously, we would like to win every game, have that momentum, [and let] winning become a habit.
Q) No hectic travel this IPL—has that helped?
A) It has been magnificent! [Travel is] one of the toughest part of IPL. Cricket-wise it is the best tournament in world. Travelling in India is absolutely grinding. You finish the game late, reach the hotel, pack your bags and keep them ready—its almost 3-4 o clock in India, then get up early, get ready, get on an airplane—It’s absolutely draining. It’s been really nice and refreshing this time.
Q) How would you describe playing under Virat Kohli—As a captain does he give you freedom to execute your plans?
A) A lot of people don’t see a lot of work done behind the scenes, lot of preparations, the analysis of batting, bowling, fielding and put all of that together. Virat and we all sit together. Virat doesn’t have to worry about about field placements during the match because most of us know what to do before we get onto the field. To play under Virat is very good. He expects excellence, to do the work in, do a lot of homework, think of the game before we get there. He exudes energy and wants to win all the time—that is infectious.
Q) Did coming off a long break work for you this IPL ?
A) Break is always nice for body and mental freshness. It gives you clarity in thought and execution. You tend to do a lot of homework. My plans have been quite clear, there are no muddled messages coming to me. Clarity has been most important thing.
Q) How has it been playing in a bio-secure bubble?
A) It’s been different. In the beginning, I thought we would lose our minds, but RCB managed it—we got a pool, a beach to ourselves. Last night we had a barbecue on the beach and cricket on the big screen. We are very lucky with management and the way they spoil us, keep us happy. Our bio bubble has been very cool.
Q) How difficult is it to be the new ball bowler, death bowler as well as a finisher?
A) I am in the best position to be honest. You want to be in high-pressure situations. You want to be tested as a cricketer; you get to bowl yorkers, smash sixes—what more do you want? I haven’t been smacked really yet but that will come unfortunately—that's the nature of the beast that is IPL.
Q) Is there an Indian youngster who has impressed you the most?
A) Devdutt Padikkal has been incredible. He has a very similar, imposing batting style like Mathew Hayden, but obviously doesn’t have the size. He has similar technique. The way he moves conducts all the time you look at him, you say he is future of Indian cricket. Definitely, got something, coming into his own. He has the ball on string. Its been special to watch.
Q) Next match is against a struggling CSK. Will it be a cakewalk for RCB?
A) Absolutely not. How many trophies has CSK won? And it’s southern derby. They are all good players, world class players. No game is easy.
