Dublin. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced the Indian squad for the Asia Cup on Monday, August 21. After this team selection, Indian T20 team head coach Sitanshu Kotak, who went on a tour to Ireland, has made a statement about fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who is returning from injury. On Tuesday, he said that Bumrah and the popular Krishna have made great comebacks after recovering from injury but both the bowlers need to play more matches before the World Cup.
“There was really no pressure on him,” Kotak said on the eve of the third match of the series against Ireland. He was in NCA (National Cricket Academy) for his RTP (return to play) and strength. Both the bowlers are very talented. Watching him bowl here never felt like he needed more practice. They are fully prepared for this challenge. These players only need a few matches before the World Cup. He will get a chance to play three matches in this series and will also get a chance to play a few matches in the Asia Cup.
When asked about his role in this short tour, Kotak said, “I went on two tours with the Indian team last year. This is my first tour as head coach. Rahul Bhai (Dravid) and he (other members of the coaching staff) are busy preparing for the Asia Cup. I have been associated with India A team since 2019. Apart from Bumrah and President (Krishna), the ‘A’ team has fewer players in this series. We have amazing talent. Working with him is a wonderful experience.
Asked about Tilak Verma’s failure to impress in the West Indies tour so far, Kotak said the young batsman has spoken to me and wants to spend more time in net sessions. Verma has scored zero and one runs respectively in two innings on this tour.
Kotak said, “He just wanted to practice. He talked about his mentality, his shot selection and it was a general discussion about what I think and what his plans are. On such trips we talk more about strategy. We don’t talk much about the technical aspects unless the player needs it and doesn’t have enough time. I don’t think you can technically change a player in a week or two-three days during a series.
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Tags: India vs Ireland, Jasprit Bumrah
First published: August 22, 2023, 20:57 IST