India coach prioritises match practice over training ahead of Sri Lanka Tests
India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has stated that the team’s six-wicket victory in their sole warm-up match provided more value than additional days of conventional training, citing high intensity and match readiness as key benefits.
India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has asserted that the team’s preparation for the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka was optimised through competitive match practice rather than extended training sessions. Speaking to the BCCI, Kotak indicated that the six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka XI in their only practice fixture ahead of the series was more beneficial for player readiness than four additional days of conventional drills.
The warm-up match, played on a pitch described as offering little assistance, saw India successfully chase down a target of 207 runs. The victory provided the squad with essential match time before the opening Test in Galle commences on 15 August. Kotak highlighted the intensity displayed by the bowlers during the fixture, noting that the competitive nature of the game served as a more effective preparation tool than routine practice.
Devdutt Padikkal was the standout performer for the Indian batting unit, remaining unbeaten on 142 off 164 balls. His innings helped India reach a first-innings total of 357/6 before declaration, responding to Sri Lanka XI’s first-innings score of 363/8 declared. Kotak singled out Padikkal’s performance as a significant positive, praising the way the batter handled the challenging conditions.
The match also showcased unexpected contributions from India’s fast bowlers, who demonstrated resilience and power-hitting ability. Gurnoor Singh and Mohammed Siraj made notable impacts with the bat, with Siraj finishing unbeaten on 32 off 15 balls, including four sixes. Kotak acknowledged the effort put in by the pacers on a wicket that provided minimal support, emphasising the value of having all players, including bowlers, engage in batting practice.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill provided a solid platform for the chase, with Gill scoring 44 off 54 balls. The result, achieved with Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, and Siraj completing the run chase, gave the team momentum heading into the series. Kotak concluded that the fixture was productive, ensuring that players received the necessary physical loading and match exposure required for the Tests.
