Sitanshu Kotak asserts that additional practice days may not be beneficial following India's victory in the warm-up match.

NEW DELHI: The Indian cricket team’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, expressed confidence that the squad benefited significantly from their recent warm-up match against Sri Lanka, which concluded with a six-wicket victory. This match served as the team's sole practice fixture before the upcoming two-match Test series, with the first Test scheduled to commence in Galle on August 15.

India successfully chased down a target of 207 runs, providing both batsmen and bowlers with essential match experience. Kotak emphasized the importance of the competitive environment during the match, suggesting it was more advantageous than several days of traditional training. “I think it was very good, very productive because if we practice four more days, I don't think it will be as good as the practice match,” he stated in a video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on X. He noted that the bowlers exhibited commendable intensity, while the batters performed well, ensuring that everyone, including the bowlers, had ample opportunity to bat.

Standout Performances and Team Efforts

Among the highlights of the match was Devdutt Padikkal’s impressive innings, where he scored an unbeaten 142 runs off 164 balls. India declared their first innings at 357 for 6, responding to Sri Lanka XI's total of 363 for 8 declared. Kotak praised Padikkal's performance, along with the efforts of the fast bowlers, who delivered strong performances despite challenging pitch conditions. “I think Devdutt batted really well, and our fast bowlers put in a lot of effort on the wicket where there was nothing,” he remarked, underscoring the overall effectiveness of the practice match.

Additionally, Kotak highlighted the unexpected contributions from the lower order, particularly from Gurnoor Singh and Mohammed Siraj, who showcased their power-hitting abilities. “It's been very good. I would say Gurnoor and Siraj hitting sixes, three to four sixes,” he noted, reflecting on the excitement generated by their performances.

Building Momentum Ahead of the Test Series

Sri Lanka XI declared their second innings at 200 for 6, setting India a target of 207 runs. The Indian batting lineup, featuring Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, laid a solid foundation for the chase. Gill, making his return, scored a quick 44 runs off 54 balls, while Siraj contributed an explosive 32 runs off just 15 balls, including four sixes. This victory not only provides India with crucial match practice but also builds momentum as they prepare for the Test series in Galle.