India Batting Coach Focuses on Mindset Ahead of Third Test at Lord’s
India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, is not overly concerned about the pitch conditions for the upcoming third Test against England at Lord’s, especially with the series tied at 1-1. England has hinted they might create a tougher pitch for the Indian batsmen after a high-scoring first two matches, but Kotak remains calm about any challenges they might face.
In a press conference before the match, which starts on July 10, Kotak expressed his first impressions of the pitch. He noted that there is more grass on the surface compared to the earlier Tests, but the final look of the pitch may change after the curators give it a last trim. He emphasized that the key for the batsmen will be to spend time on the pitch to adapt, rather than rushing into aggressive shots.
“I think the pitch does have a bit more grass than in the last two matches. We’ll have to see what it looks like after tomorrow’s final cut. Traditionally, Lord’s pitches tend to have lower scores in the early innings, suggesting more assistance for bowlers. It could be a test for the batsmen, but the focus should be on the right mindset. The more time you spend at the crease, the easier it will be to adjust,” Kotak stated.
Additionally, he acknowledged the return of fast bowler Jofra Archer, which will pose a new challenge for the Indian team. Kotak remarked that while England has the right to prepare any type of pitch they choose, it’s vital for the batsmen to focus on their own game.
“It will be a challenge with Jofra coming back. England might make a few changes to their bowling lineup, and yes, the pitch could be tougher. But at the end of the day, if you bat well, you can handle any conditions. Challenges are part of the game,” he added.
Archer is returning to the Test arena after four years, having last played against India in 2021. He recently took 1 wicket for 32 runs in his comeback match for Sussex and also scored 31 runs. In his two previous Test matches against India, he has claimed four wickets at an average of 30.50.
With doubts raised about England’s less experienced bowling attack, they are keen to include Archer at Lord’s. The team has also added Gus Atkinson to boost their fast bowling options. It remains to be seen if these changes will impact England’s bowling performance, which has struggled against India in this series.
