Such things happen: Batting coach Kotak defends T20 champions’ woes under Shreyas Iyer

India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has defended the recent form of the T20 team under new captain Shreyas Iyer, saying the team is still in transition and “things like this can happen” despite their status as world champions. His remarks came on the eve of the third T20I against England, with the team integrating several young players, including teenage debutant Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

The comments come amid scrutiny of India’s recent performances after three consecutive defeats following a strong run that included major ICC and continental titles.

“You see, our attempt is to improve in all three departments; batting, bowling and fielding,” Kotak added.

Kotak emphasized that the transition phase involves managing personnel changes, including the absence of key all-rounder Hardik Pandya, while continuing to prepare younger players for future ICC events.

“It’s (the) nature of the game. Sometimes when there’s a transition – the captain has changed, Hardik’s not there, (and) you’re trying to introduce 3-4 young players – it shouldn’t happen anyway, but these things can happen. The Indian team’s efforts remain the same.” Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made his T20I debut on Saturday, July 4 in Manchester (Photo by Reuters)

TRANSITION AND LONG TERM PLANNING

The batting coach remained adamant about India’s current focus on continuous improvement across all departments as they progress towards the next T20 World Cup cycle.

“Everyone has their limitations but we always try to (improve) in batting, bowling and fielding. If we are looking at winning the next World Cup, we will have to improve. We have to be better than what we did in the last World Cup,” he added.

He pointed out that despite recent setbacks, the team’s long-term record remains strong and the focus remains on development rather than panic over isolated results.

Kotak also highlighted the importance of all-rounders in T20 cricket and noted that the team is working on developing back-up options in Hardik Pandya’s role. He mentioned players like Nitish Kumar Reddy and Suryansh Shedge as part of a wider pool being prepared for future assignments.

“In T20s, pace bowlers play a very important role if you count one as a sixth bowler,” he said. “With all these young players, all 15 players may not play, but if they are with the team, at least they will get used to the environment.”

He added that the team management, selectors and the BCCI are focusing on preparing for major tournaments well in advance to ensure a steady pool of talent is ready for future global events.

India will face England in the third T20I in Nottingham on July 7, looking to bounce back after losing the series opener and suffering a four-wicket defeat in the second match.

– The end

Published on:

06 Jul 2026 22:08 IST