The dismal batting show against South Africa at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, has led to need for changes in the lineup. While the benching of vice-captain Axar Patel was criticised, the main concerns seems to be the misfiring top-order. Ishan Kishan has two fifties to his name but Abhishek Sharma has failed to deliver whereas Tilak Varma's strike rate is not up to the standards. With Sanju Samson sitting on the sidelines, one change in the lineup can be expected as oppositions have resorted to using off-spin against them. On the eve of the Super 8 game against Zimbabwe, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak did not rule out changes to the lineup but didn't reveal any.
“There can be changes in the game. We are thinking of the top three left handers and oppositions bowling off spin. Now that we have lost openers early in 3 matches we are talking about it,” Kotak said in the pre-match press conference.
Planning done, all eyes on execution
Kotak revealed that discussions have taken place regarding tactics as oppositions have taken the off-spin route. He feels that plans can be made but it is up to the batters to execute them.
“The discussions are related to tactics. How the oppositions are bowling and how the batters can tackle them. It's more about planning and preparation. End of the day, it is the batters prerogative to go out there and choose what to do, our job is to give them options,” the Rajkot-born batter said.
Focus on left-right combination
Kotak also talked about keeping the left-right combination going as India have abundance of southpaws. On the eve of the Zimbabwe clash, he feels that all players are in good form.
“I don't think we need to change too many things. The left-right combination or the bowling combination are the kinds of things we are thinking of. We are trying to reinforce good opening starts. Everyone is looking in good form, the momentum has shifted due to a few hurdles,” he added.
Big win is the need of the hour
India don’t just need a win against Zimbabwe. They need a big one to improve their net run rate (NRR) which has been damaged after the South Africa defeat. Even after a win against Zimbabwe, they will have an eye on the results of other matches to see what they need to do against West Indies to cement a spot in last four.