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Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak was in awe of India’s no-holds-barred batting approach after the visitors gunned down a steep target of 226 in the series opening T20I at Hagley Oval. “In world cricket, sometimes we talk about how the runs are increasing, the pitches and all that. But the way batters’ belief is growing, it is unbelievable. Sanju Samson is an outstanding, power-packed player,” Kotak said.

“The way he and Abhishek Sharma approached the chase yesterday. It may seem natural given the high scores that are posted. But, if you ever put yourself in the place of a batter, and think that you have to hit 3-4 sixes in the first two overs, you will also be afraid of getting out. If you get out early in two consecutive games, then you will play in fear in the third match; fear that if you don’t get a run, then you will be dropped.”

“Overcoming all that, and the way they are showing the intent, that excites me. Really, it is amazing, that on top of power, talent, and intent, and everything, controlling their mind also, to get them into that fearless attitude. That is something.”

While Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his chance given the purple patch Indian openers are in, Naman Dhir has taken to international cricket like a duck to water.

“Naman Dhir, in the last six to eight balls, in the Bangalore match what he did, we know that he is capable of doing that. He is a very exciting talent. His role in the last match was very, very important. He is a power-packed player, He knows what is expected from him. And he does exactly that, which is a great sign.”

This article first appeared on Guerilla Cricket and was syndicated with permission.

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