Shami Fit Ahead of Third T20I Against England, Confirms Batting Coach Sitanshu Kotak

Indian pacer’s availability hinges on team management’s decision; high-scoring match expected in Rajkot

Rajkot (Gujarat), January 28: Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has confirmed that veteran pacer Mohammed Shami is fit ahead of the third T20I against England. Shami, who has been out of action for over a year, was included in the squad for the ongoing series but is yet to play a match, having watched both T20Is from the dugout.

At the pre-match press conference, Kotak said Shami’s inclusion will depend on discussions between head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav.
“Shami is fit, but the decision to play him depends on how the team management plans to build his workload,” Kotak explained.

Players’ Unique Batting Plans

Kotak highlighted the individual approaches players adopt while batting.
“Every player has their unique way of playing. For instance, Abhishek Sharma thrives on using pace and his offside strokes, while Tilak Varma devises specific plans against bowlers, knowing when and where to target them. This kind of planning extends to all players, even bowlers like Arshdeep Singh, who strategize for crucial moments at the death overs,” Kotak said.

He emphasized the importance of working with players to enhance their strengths gradually, noting that tailored guidance can significantly impact their performances over time.

Rajkot: A Batting Paradise

Kotak suggested that the third T20I in Rajkot could be a high-scoring affair, given the pitch’s reputation as a batting-friendly surface.
“Rajkot is known for being a batting track. However, England also comes with specific plans, and their bowlers adjust their strategies as the game progresses. It’s a dynamic challenge for the batsmen,” he added.

Squads for the Third T20I

India Squad:
Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Dhruv Jurel, Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Ramandeep Singh, Harshit Rana

England Squad:
Philip Salt (wk), Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (c), Harry Brook, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Smith, Jamie Overton, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood, Saqib Mahmood, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Rehan Ahmed

The match is set to offer exciting cricketing action, with both teams aiming to execute their plans and entertain fans.