The Indian cricket team's ongoing tour of New Zealand has entered a critical phase where preparations for the longest format are running parallel to the limited-overs fixtures. As the ODI series progresses, the team management has initiated rigorous planning for the upcoming Test matches. Captain Shubman Gill is set to miss the final two ODIs, shifting his focus early towards the red-ball challenge. Addressing a press conference ahead of the third ODI, Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak elaborated on the team's strategic roadmap and the rationale behind retaining specific players in the country.
Retention of Fast Bowlers
Kotak revealed that fast bowlers Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, and Aaqib Nabi will not travel back to India with the rest of the white-ball squad after the ODI series concludes. Instead, these three pacers will stay back in New Zealand to participate in specialized training sessions tailored for the red-ball challenge. However, the team management has not yet clarified whether any of these players will ultimately secure a spot in the playing XI to make their official Test debut during the upcoming series.
Kotak emphasized that the pitches utilized for the opening two ODI encounters offered considerable seam movement and lateral swing. He noted that such challenging conditions serve as ideal preparation for Test cricket because, although the type of ball changes, the limited-overs games provide a clear understanding of local conditions, grass cover, and atmospheric behavior. While acknowledging that the conditions have tested the players, he maintained that the experience remains invaluable for the squad's overall readiness.
India A Matches and Upcoming Test Camp
Highlighting other crucial milestones in their preparation schedule, Kotak pointed towards the three matches played by the India A side, stating that these fixtures ensured adequate practice time for both batsmen and bowlers. The specialized training camp for India's Test specialists is scheduled to commence on November 11. Kotak expressed optimism that these upcoming sessions will sufficiently condition the players for the series ahead. He noted that the 5 to 6 dedicated training sessions starting from the 11th will play a vital role in fine-tuning the squad's red-ball credentials.
Coaching Staff Split and Next Fixture
Shedding light on the internal logistics of the coaching staff, Kotak explained that head coach Gautam Gambhir will stay back with the ODI squad for the immediate future. Meanwhile, Kotak himself alongside bowling coach Morne Morkel will travel to Wellington immediately following the completion of the third ODI. The Indian team is set to take the field on Tuesday in Hamilton for the third and final ODI of the series, where they will look to consolidate their dominance and extend their lead.
