IND vs NZ T20I series: Sitanshu Kotak lauds Samson, Abhishek’s ‘fearless attitude’ and mind-control
Kotak said the openers’ fearless batting and mental control helped India after a 93-run stand in the first T20I.
- On Saturday, October 24, 2026, India faces New Zealand in the second T20I at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi expected to play after Ishan Kishan's injury ruled him out.
- India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma on Friday for their "power, talent and intent," lauding their mental control during Thursday's 93-run opening stand.
- Naman Dhir has become an important squad member, contributing an unbeaten 42 off 15 balls during Thursday's record chase; Kotak called him a "very exciting talent" capable of bowling and finishing matches.
- Despite social media clamour for Sooryavanshi, management remains committed to the current XI, as Kotak noted the youngster understands why he is not playing while observing the in-form openers.
- Kotak emphasized that excessive hype is "not good for the player," believing the 15-year-old will have a bright future if allowed to develop naturally without unrealistic expectations.
11 Articles
11 Articles
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi needs time, too much hype can hurt his growth: Sitanshu Kotak
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has warned that the hype around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could hurt the 15-year-old's growth, urging fans to be patient as he waits for his first opportunity in the New Zealand T20I series.
"Hype Not Good For A Young Player": India Batting Coach On Growing Demand For Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Inclusion
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak isn't happy to see the constant hype around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, saying the chatter that he "must play" isn't good for his career.
'You Can't Make Changes to the XI Because People Like Him': Batting Coach Kotak on Sooryavanshi's Hype
Get latest articles and stories on Sports at LatestLY. India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak believes the hype surrounding 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and calls for his inclusion in the playing XI have not been beneficial for the youngster or the team, stressing that the left-handed batter needs time to develop despite his exceptional talent. Sports News | 'You Can't Make Changes to the XI Because People Like Him': Batting Coach Kotak on Soo…
'He is too young': Sitanshu Kotak opens up on chatter around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of second NZ T20I
The stage is set for the second T20I of the ongoing multi-format series between India and New Zealand. The two sides are slated to take on each other at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 24th. It is worth noting that the Indian team got off to a good start to the series, winning the first T20I of the series in brilliant fashion. With the ongoing series, many fans only have one question in their minds, and that is why Vaibhav Sooryavans…
You cant make changes to the XI because people like him: Batting coach Kotak on Sooryavanshis hype - The Tribune
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak believes the hype surrounding 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and calls for his inclusion in the playing XI have not been beneficial for the youngster or the team, stressing that the left-handed batter needs time to develop despite his exceptional talent.
IND vs NZ T20I series: Sitanshu Kotak lauds Samson, Abhishek’s ‘fearless attitude’ and mind-control
Kotak said the team management should be appreciated for sticking to Samson and Abhishek despite the social media-fuelled clamour for the inclusion of 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
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