India’s batting coach, Abhishek Nayar is under the radar of the Indian team, as he is under the scanner. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly appointed former Saurashtra batter Sitanshu Kotak as India’s new batting coach. This decision comes ahead of the upcoming limited-overs series against England and the Champions Trophy next month. The change follows concerns over the performance of the Indian batting line-up, especially during their recent tour of Australia. Hence, Nayar is under the scanner.
“It is clear that Abhishek Nayar’s expertise isn’t helping the players. Kotak has been a specialist batting coach for a lengthy period of time and has also got the trust of the players,” a senior BCCI official told PTI on conditions of anonymity. This means Sitanshu will play Abhishek Nayar’s role in the team, if that is so, then why BCCI is not sacking Nayar? This question remains as maybe he is getting some time from the head coach.
Why Abhishek Nayar was replaced
Previously, India didn’t have a dedicated batting coach under Gautam Gambhir, with Abhishek Nayar taking on the role informally. However, India’s batting struggled both in the home series against New Zealand and during their Australia tour, leading to criticism, notably from legend Sunil Gavaskar. He pointed out that Virat Kohli and others were facing ongoing technical issues. “The support staff should be accountable,” Gavaskar emphasised on this part.
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Kotak’s experience and trust
52-year-old Kotak has been a part of the National Cricket Academy as a batting coach and has also coached the India A team. His successful stint, including a recent tour of Australia, has earned him the players’ trust. This appointment might be temporary, as the England away series is still a few months away.
Kotak’s first challenge will be the five-match T20I series at home against England, starting January 22. BCCI believes that “Kotak’s expertise will benefit the team, especially as he has worked closely with notable players and has a solid coaching track record.”
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