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The India National Cricket Team is all set to make changes to its coaching arrangements after the third ODI of the ongoing five-match series against New Zealand in Hamilton. With the first Test scheduled to begin on November 19, the Indian coaching staff will split into two groups to manage preparations for both formats.
India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has shared details of the plan. He revealed that the Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir is likely to stay with the ODI team, while he and fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel will travel to Wellington to prepare the Test squad.
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Sitanshu Kotak reveals Gautam Gambhir's coaching plan after third ODI against New Zealand
Ahead of the third ODI on November 10, Sitanshu Kotak revealed that they are planning to split the coaching staff into two groups, keeping in mind the two-match Test series between India and New Zealand. However, Gambhir will take the final decision.
Gambhir and spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule are expected to remain with the ODI team for the remaining matches, while Kotak, Morkel, and some other support staff will move to Wellington.
Sitanshu Kotak said at a Hamilton press conference on Monday: “The plan can still change, but as far as I know, obviously Gautam will have to be here—the one-day World Cup is coming [in 2027], so he will be staying here, and probably Sairaj will stay here. Me, Morne, and some other staff will go to Wellington.”
Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi and Arshdeep Singh to help India to prepare for New Zealand Tests
India's Test squad will begin their preparation camp on November 11. The team is expected to get around five to six practice sessions before the first Test, starting on November 19 at the Basin Reserve in Wellington. The main focus will be on fitness, workload management, and getting players ready according to the conditions in New Zealand.
The batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said, “India Test players will start their camp from the 11th, so hopefully those 5-6 sessions will help get them prepared for the Test series.”
Three fast bowlers from the ODI squad, including Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, and Arshdeep Singh, will also stay back in New Zealand. They will help the Test players during practice as net bowlers and remain available as reserve options. Kotak said, “I think three bowlers. Gurnoor, maybe Nabi, and I think Arsh is also staying back.”
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Sitanshu Kotak explains KL Rahul's biggest strength, explains India's strategy behind all-rounder selection
Sitanshu Kotak also praised KL Rahul and highlighted his importance to the Indian team. He believes Rahul's experience as a Test opener gives him a major advantage and makes him a valuable player in different situations.
The coach said, "The biggest advantage is he opens in Test cricket. He is someone who plays according to the need of the team. Since I have joined, he has played unbelievable innings. Never looks under pressure and has never let the team down. Can rotate and can easily hit sixes.”
Speaking about India's use of all-rounders, Kotak explained that players are being selected according to their roles and positions. He also pointed out that replacing a bowler with an extra batter is not always an easy decision because the team needs the right balance.
Kotak also shared that the Indian players enjoyed a special team dinner to celebrate Diwali in New Zealand. The celebration included live music and gave the players a chance to enjoy some quality time together ahead of their busy schedule.
