India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has highlighted a minor technical issue in Sai Sudharsan’s batting, even as the young middle-order batter impressed with an unbeaten 87 in the second Test against West Indies. Kotak pointed out that Sudharsan occasionally leans on the back foot against fuller deliveries, which can make him vulnerable to being cramped or trapped in certain situations.
The innings, however, showcased Sudharsan’s class and temperament. He combined patience with selective aggression, building a crucial partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal and helping India reach a strong position at 318 for 2 at stumps. Kotak emphasized that while the technical flaw exists, it does not overshadow the quality of his performance and the value of the runs scored.
Kotak explained that the minor back-foot tendency is something Sudharsan has been aware of and is actively working to correct. The coaching team’s goal is to fine-tune his technique without overcomplicating his natural style, allowing him to handle deliveries that turn sharply or vary in length more effectively. This adjustment is particularly important against spin, where slight misjudgments can lead to early dismissals.
The dismissal that exposed the flaw came when Sudharsan misjudged a sharply turning delivery, showing how even small technical lapses can be costly at the highest level. Kotak stressed that identifying and addressing these minor issues early in a player’s career is essential for long-term growth, ensuring that Sudharsan can become a more complete middle-order batter.
Despite the critique, Kotak was full of praise for Sudharsan’s approach, highlighting his mental resilience, shot selection, and ability to perform under pressure. The innings reinforced his potential as a dependable Test player, capable of anchoring partnerships and contributing significantly to India’s batting depth.
Moving forward, Sudharsan is expected to work closely with the coaching staff on drills and practice sessions that focus on back-foot movements and timing against challenging deliveries. The aim is to maintain his natural stroke play while eliminating vulnerabilities that opposition bowlers could exploit.
Kotak’s feedback reflects a balanced approach: acknowledging the positive impact of Sudharsan’s innings while pointing out areas for refinement. If he successfully integrates these technical adjustments, Sudharsan could cement his place as a reliable middle-order option for India, capable of performing consistently across different conditions and against varied bowling attacks.
In essence, while Sai Sudharsan’s recent knock was a highlight of the match, the coaching insight serves as a reminder that even the most promising players benefit from continuous improvement. Addressing this minor flaw now positions him for a stronger, more consistent career in international cricket.
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