AUS vs IND: India coach makes a bold comment about the form of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2nd ODI

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 opening match in Perth, Kotak dismissed doubts over the duo’s form and stressed their experience, preparation and professionalism.

“I don’t think there was anything wrong with it. 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 preparation was excellent.” Kotak said this while talking to the media before the match on Wednesday.

Due to continuous rain, play in the first ODI was reduced to 26 overs per team. India managed to post a below-par score Rohit was out after scoring only eight runs and Virat was out for zero.Due to which Australia could easily achieve the target.

However, Kotak downplayed the impact of the initial shock. “It is difficult to plan your innings when you have four or five rain breaks. It is not easy for any team to go in and out every few overs. The conditions have made batting quite challenging.” he explained.

“They both look in very good touch to me”: Kotak

Despite their low scores in Perth, Kotak confirmed that both the senior batsmen are in strong form. “They both look to me to be in very good form. They batted really well in the nets yesterday. Their approach in each practice session has been excellent,” he said.

The batting coach also highlighted that the management is closely monitoring the players’ form and fitness even during the break after India’s Champions Trophy win.

Kotak revealed that the coaching staff and selectors are in constant touch with the senior players during the rest.

“We were well aware of what they were preparing for and what their fitness status was. They go to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) sometimes, and we get regular updates and videos from there – their practice routines, fitness work, everything,” he said.

Also read: Australia vs India – Pitch Report, Adelaide Oval Stats & Records for 2nd ODI

The coach also talked about the delicate balance in managing experienced players like Rohit and Kohli.

“With such senior players, you don’t want to interfere if it’s not necessary. If they are 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 intervene.” Kotak explained.

Australia is leading 1-0 in the three-match series, so there will be pressure on India to perform better in the second ODI.

Also read: Subramaniam Badrinath reveals his all-time India-Australia ODI XI, no place for Virender Sehwag and Adam Gilchrist