Key Points

Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has praised Sanju Samson's versatility ahead of the crucial Asia Cup match against Pakistan. Kotak stated that Samson is capable of batting at any position according to team requirements. The coach emphasized that players are completely focused on cricket rather than external pressures. India's performance in the group stage will determine their Super 4 match locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Key Points: Sitanshu Kotak Praises Sanju Samson Batting Versatility for India

  • Samson's batting position uncertain after Gill's addition to squad
  • Kotak emphasizes team requirements dictate Samson's position
  • Players focused solely on cricket ahead of Pakistan clash
  • India seeks top Group A finish for Dubai Super 4 matches
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Sanju Samson can bat at any number: Sitanshu Kotak praises India's wicketkeeper/batter

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak says Sanju Samson can bat at any position as team prepares for crucial Asia Cup clash against Pakistan in Dubai.

"I think Sanju is a good enough player to bat at any number - Sitanshu Kotak"

Dubai, September 12

Ahead of the high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan in the ongoing T20 Asia Cup on September 14, Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson, saying he's versatile enough to bat at any position for India.

Samson's batting position is uncertain after Shubman Gill's addition to the squad, as Gill opened alongside Abhishek Sharma in India's Asia Cup opener against the UAE. Samson, who had previously opened with Sharma, this development adds to the uncertainty around his batting position.

"I think Sanju is a good enough player to bat at any number. So, it will be according to the team's requirements. The captain and head coach will decide. He is more than happy to bat at any number," Sitanshu Kotak told the media.

On the India vs Pakistan clash, Kotak states that the players are solely focused on playing cricket and are not concerned with anything else. "We are here to play. The players are focused on playing cricket, and I don't think they have anything in mind other than playing. That is what we focus on. It will be a competitive game. The India-Pakistan game is always a competitive game. So, we would rather focus on that," he added.

India posted a commanding victory by nine wickets in their Asia Cup opener against the UAE on Wednesday. After the fixture against Pakistan, India will play their final group stage fixture against Oman on September 19 in Abu Dhabi.

After the group stage, the tournament will proceed to the Super 4, where the top two teams from each group will qualify. If India finishes at the top of Group A, then all of their Super 4 matches will be held in Dubai.

If India finishes second, then one of their Super 4 clashes will be held in Abu Dhabi and the remaining two in Dubai. The Super 4 stage will run from September 20 to 26.

Dubai will host the final, which is scheduled for September 28.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I appreciate Samson's flexibility, I wish the team management would give him a consistent position. Constantly changing his role doesn't help any player settle in properly.
A
Arjun K
India-Pakistan match is going to be epic! 🏏 Hope our boys stay focused like Kotak said. Samson should bat at number 4 if we lose early wickets against their pace attack.
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Michael C
Samson's technique against spin makes him perfect for middle order in UAE conditions. Smart move to have him as a floater in the batting lineup.
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Shreya B
Finally some recognition for Sanju! He's been performing consistently in IPL and domestic cricket. Deserves a permanent spot in the playing XI 💪
K
Karthik V
Good to see the coaching staff backing players publicly. This builds confidence in the team. Hope we continue this positive approach against Pakistan!

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