Thaindian News

New Delhi, April 9 (IANS) South African fast bowler Morne Morkel said he is excited to play under Delhi Daredevils captain Virender Sehwag in the fourth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

“He is someone who is always planning and bringing out new things. It’s exciting sharing the dressing room with him. He is the captain of our side and it’s special to work under him. Very calm and a cool guy and it’s good of have such character in the IPL,” said Morkel on the sidelines of a promotional event Saturday.

Morkel, who was not very long ago sharing the new ball with Dale Steyn in the recently concluded World Cup, admitted that adjusting to shortest version of the game would be tough but he is ready for the challenge. The team plays its first match against the Mumbai Indians at the Ferozeshah Kotla here Sunday.

“It is going to be tough adjusting to the format for a couple of weeks but IPL is a huge tournament and I am ready to play my part. First game is tomorrow and we are done with our preparations.”

Morkel had a decent World Cup outing though his team suffered a shock quarterfinal loss to New Zealand. The tearaway said bowling on the slow wickets of sub-continent is a challenge which he relishes.

“Of course, it’s a challenge bowling on Indian wickets but it’s a challenge that I enjoy.”

“I have a fair idea of the Indian conditions and pitches with the World Cup. I am improving my skills on a daily basis and it was good for me to pick that experience before this tournament,” said Morkel, who took nine wickets in six matches in the quadrennial event.

Morkel is also looking forward to bowl to Sachin Tendulkar, the captain of Mumbai Indians.

“I have played against him for last couple of months. Obviously it’s going to be one big challenge. He is a world-class player and everyone knows that. Plus, he has performing good off late.”