Sitanshu Kotak Likely to Be India’s New Batting Coach Ahead of England Series

In a major development for Indian cricket, former Saurashtra cricketer Sitanshu Kotak is set to take over as the batting coach of the Indian cricket team. Although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to make an official announcement, reports suggest Kotak will join the team before the T20 series against England, beginning on January 22.

A seasoned coach with extensive experience, Kotak, 52, hails from Rajkot and has been closely associated with the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and India A teams. Known for his sharp cricketing acumen, he has previously coached India A on multiple tours and led the senior Indian team as head coach during the Ireland series in 2023.

Concerns Over Team India’s Performance

The decision to include a dedicated batting coach follows intense scrutiny of the team’s performance after their Test series defeat in Australia. Critics, including former Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar, have questioned the coaching staff, particularly highlighting repeated batting errors by players such as Virat Kohli, who struggled with dismissals outside the off-stump, and captain Rohit Sharma, who managed only 31 runs in three matches.

Fitness Focus: BCCI Considering Yo-Yo Test Comeback

In addition to strengthening the coaching staff, the BCCI is reportedly considering reinstating the Yo-Yo fitness test to address growing concerns over injuries and fitness levels. Introduced in 2017, the Yo-Yo test was a mandatory fitness benchmark for Indian cricketers, requiring players to score a minimum of 16.5 to qualify.

With Kotak’s extensive first-class career spanning 20 years and his proven coaching credentials, his appointment could bring much-needed stability to Team India’s batting lineup as they prepare for a challenging series against England.