New Delhi, Oct 10 (NationPress) India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised B Sai Sudharsan for his ability to remain calm and maintain his batting style under pressure. During the second and final Test against West Indies at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday, the left-handed batsman scored a composed 87 on the first day.

Sudharsan’s innings, which marked his second Test fifty and first fifty on home soil, included 12 boundaries and was instrumental in a significant 193-run partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal, leading India to a strong position of 318/2 at stumps.

Coming into the match with just 147 runs in seven Tests and facing scrutiny, Sudharsan entered the game early following the dismissal of K.L. Rahul and displayed remarkable composure. He showcased his back-foot dominance against spin, executing several crisp punches and drives, especially against spinner Jomel Warrican.

At one point, he was dropped on 58 by a short mid-wicket fielder off medium pacer Justin Greaves. Kotak remarked, "We all recognize his talent. Rather than focusing on the score, we observe how he approaches his innings and the shots he plays. Sometimes players can falter in a few innings, but today he batted brilliantly. He is not someone who appears mentally weak, yet he never seems pressured or alters his style of play; he plays according to the merit of the ball.”

Despite his impressive innings, Sudharsan's preference for back-foot play ultimately led to his dismissal, as he was trapped lbw by a turning delivery from Warrican. Kotak acknowledged this aspect and pointed out that it’s an area for improvement.

"Being from Tamil Nadu, he is accustomed to playing on turning wickets and handles spin well," Kotak explained. "While many players negotiate deliveries on the front foot, Sudharsan often plays them off the back foot, which can sometimes lead to issues with very full deliveries. We are addressing this to enhance his game.”

“He is aware of this and is working on it. If the line is outside off stump, he could easily handle those with a front-foot shot, which would have a different impact. Overall, his game against spin is largely back-foot oriented, but he possesses great power in his shots, whether facing spinners or fast bowlers.”

“Having observed him over the last 2-3 years, especially in the India A and England A series where he scored 100 and 199 in 3 matches, I believe conditions do not faze him. On turning tracks, he is particularly adept and knows where he needs to improve,” he elaborated.

Sudharsan’s innings, characterized by his control and determination, showcased his unwavering temperament and the team’s faith in him as a long-term asset at number three for Tests. Kotak concluded by emphasizing that every batter has their unique approach to playing spin in today's game.

“Ultimately, it’s a matter of mindset—whether you step out or play from the crease. Players have different strengths and weaknesses. The important factor is the temperament displayed in red-ball cricket, which I was thrilled to witness in England as we planned our strategy.”

“The excitement surrounding players like Jaiswal after his performance today is palpable. Everyone, including Gill, K.L., and Jaddu, played exceptionally well. Our objective is to score 350-360 runs in a day at a rate of four runs per over. If we only bowl 80 overs, we can still reach 320 runs. With positive intent and the skill our batters bring, we believe that no specific style is necessary.”

“While KL and Gill may step out, Jaiswal will react to flighted deliveries. Not everyone needs to have a particular approach. (Cheteshwar) Pujara was distinct in his strategy, often stepping out to manipulate the bowler's length. Everyone has their unique strengths.”

“For instance, Shubman played his first shot over mid-wicket when the ball was slow, indicating his intent. While he may have had a top edge that led to his dismissal, we understand our goals in the dressing room and are executing them effectively. It’s encouraging to witness our cohesive performance as a red-ball batting unit.