India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has expressed full confidence in senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli ahead of the second ODI against Australia in Adelaide on Thursday, October 23.
Sitanshu Kotak dismisses concerns over Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s form
Following India’s seven-wicket defeat in the rain-affected opener in Perth, Kotak brushed aside doubts over the duo’s form, emphasizing their experience, preparation, and professionalism.
“I don’t think there was any rustiness. They played the IPL, and their preparation has been very good. Both of them have a lot of experience. Even before coming to Australia, their preparations were excellent,” Kotak said during a pre-match media interaction on Wednesday.
The first ODI saw play reduced to 26 overs per side due to persistent rain. India managed a below-par total, with Rohit scoring only eight runs and Virat dismissed for a duck, allowing Australia to chase down the target comfortably.
Kotak, however, downplayed the impact of the early setbacks. “It’s difficult to plan your innings when you have four or five rain breaks. Going in and out every few overs isn’t easy for any team. The conditions made batting quite challenging,” he explained.
“They both look in very good touch to me”: Kotak
Despite their low scores in Perth, Kotak reaffirmed that both senior batters are in strong rhythm. “They both look in very good touch to me. They batted really well yesterday in the nets. Every practice session, their approach has been excellent,” he noted.
The batting coach also highlighted that the management has been closely monitoring the players’ form and fitness, even during their break following India’s Champions Trophy triumph.
Kotak revealed that the coaching staff and selectors remain in constant communication with senior players during their rest periods.
“We were very much aware of what preparations they were doing and their fitness status. They sometimes go to the National Cricket Academy (NCA), and we get regular updates and videos from there – their practice routines, fitness work, everything,” he said.
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The coach also spoke about the delicate balance in managing experienced players like Rohit and Kohli.
“With such senior players, you don’t want to intervene if it’s not required. If they’re doing things right and you still try to get involved, it may not be the right thing to do. You need to find the right time to step in,” Kotak explained.
With Australia leading 1-0 in the three-match series, India will be under pressure to deliver a stronger performance in the second ODI.
