Shitanshu Kotak, the head coach for India’s tour of Ireland, shed light on a recent conversation he had with young batsman Tilak Varma to enhance his game strategy after his lackluster performances in the T20Is.
Varma, who faced dismissals with scores of 0 and 1 in the two T20Is, expressed his intention to refine his form by focusing on his mental approach and shot selection. According to Kotak, these discussions typically center around tactical aspects of gameplay rather than extensive technical adjustments unless specifically requested by the player. The coach believes that making significant technical changes to a player’s style within a series or a few days is not practical.
The discussion encompassed topics like constructing innings and improving approach, particularly for the final game. Shitanshu Kotak emphasized the significance of these conversations in the overall progress of a player throughout a tour.
“He was keen to practice. We talked about his mindset, shot selection, and it was a normal conversation about my thoughts and his plans. During tours, we mainly focus on tactics. He discussed strategies for building his innings and approaching the last game,” Kotak stated about Varma during a press conference.
“We don’t delve too much into technical aspects unless the player requires it and there’s sufficient time. Changing a player’s technique within a series, even within a week or a few days, is not feasible.”
Having already secured the T20I series victory against Ireland, India is set to face their opponent once more in the third and final T20I on August 23. Kotak hinted that significant changes to the lineup are unlikely for this match. The topic of providing opportunities to different players was raised, and Kotak pointed out the challenge of doing so within the condensed series.
Due to weather conditions, the series opener was essentially a truncated game, limiting chances for all players to showcase their skills. With only three matches in the series, rotating the squad and resting players becomes complex. In longer series, usually comprising five matches, the team ensures each player gets some playing time. Despite limited opportunities, Kotak is committed to maintaining ongoing discussions about game strategy and mental preparation, striving to nurture players’ growth during this brief tour. Through this player-oriented approach, the team aims to sustain their successful streak.
“We’ll discuss the team in the evening, and if there’s a chance to provide an opportunity, we’ll do so. With a short series, the first match was somewhat affected by rain,” he mentioned. “If we decide to give someone a chance, we’ll need to drop another player. Resting someone after just one match is challenging. In a five-match series, we aim for everyone to get a game or two. With only three matches here—half of one was rained out—it’s tough to leave out those who have played.”
Advertisement
Advertisement