NEW DELHI: Despite a comprehensive eight-wicket defeat in the second ODI against South Africa, India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has stated that the team’s approach will remain unchanged for the series-deciding third ODI.
Kotak emphasized that while there might not be significant changes in the playing eleven, the final lineup will be decided based on the conditions of the pitch.
“Our approach won’t change at all. Not many changes I wouldn’t think, but again once we go and see the wicket, then we will decide,” said Kotak during the post-match press conference.India, put into bat, posted a total of 211 in the second ODI, failing to build substantial partnerships. South Africa chased down the target with ease, leveling the three-match series 1-1.
Kotak acknowledged that India lost momentum after the 35th over and fell short by 50-60 runs.
“From 165 for 4 in 35 overs to 211, we could have got to 250-260; it would have been a fighting score. It (the wicket) was little up and down, from the cracks, the ball was deviating. Up to 35 overs, we batted OK, and we could have got 250-plus, but it (wicket) was definitely difficult,” Kotak explained.
Kotak emphasized that while there might not be significant changes in the playing eleven, the final lineup will be decided based on the conditions of the pitch.
“Our approach won’t change at all. Not many changes I wouldn’t think, but again once we go and see the wicket, then we will decide,” said Kotak during the post-match press conference.India, put into bat, posted a total of 211 in the second ODI, failing to build substantial partnerships. South Africa chased down the target with ease, leveling the three-match series 1-1.
Kotak acknowledged that India lost momentum after the 35th over and fell short by 50-60 runs.
“From 165 for 4 in 35 overs to 211, we could have got to 250-260; it would have been a fighting score. It (the wicket) was little up and down, from the cracks, the ball was deviating. Up to 35 overs, we batted OK, and we could have got 250-plus, but it (wicket) was definitely difficult,” Kotak explained.
Despite the defeat, Kotak praised captain KL Rahul‘s composed innings (56) and the performance of young Sai Sudharsan (62). He highlighted the importance of partnerships and acknowledged that India fell short due to losing wickets in quick succession.
“There was grass on the wicket, and all the results (here), the plan was to field first anyway,” Kotak added.
Looking ahead to the series-deciding third ODI in Paarl on Thursday, Kotak expressed confidence in the team’s approach, urging a focus on partnerships and adaptability to the pitch conditions.
(With inputs from PTI)
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