Kotak urges contributions from India's all-rounders and lower order ahead of SL vs IND second Test
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said in Colombo on August 23, 2026, that it was time for the team's all-rounders and lower-order batters to contribute as India prepare for the second Test against Sri Lanka. Kotak spoke to the media on Sunday about batting matters, player fitness and the pitch ahead of day two.
Kotak, who had a long and successful domestic career for Saurashtra, said he was pleased with how Devdutt Padikkal had performed in the current Test series against Sri Lanka. “His intent, temperament and the pace with which he batted looked good. It is a good sign for us. He has been waiting for his turn and I am happy with the way he has prepared for this opportunity,” Kotak told the media on Sunday.
Asked whether Padikkal had secured the No. 3 position, Kotak took a measured line, noting past performances by Sai Sudharsan alongside Padikkal. “He has done well at No. 3; previously Sai Sudharsan too did well though he did not get hundreds. Both Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan are top-order batters... they can open against the new-ball, too. For now, Padikkal has done well.”
Kotak expressed frustration at avoidable dismissals and pressed for contributions from the lower order. “I would have liked 300 for three or four. Some of the dismissals were soft, set batters losing wickets, but it happens in cricket. Now it is time for our all-rounders and lower-order to score.”
On the fitness of Rishabh Pant, Kotak offered a brief update, indicating the wicketkeeper-batter was recovering. “He seems fine and should play.”
Assessing the surface, Kotak said the pitch offered something for both disciplines, with movement for the quicks and assistance for spinners later in the match. “Fast bowlers had a little movement and that was good. We felt that the spin was also good. On day three and four, the pitch will assist spinners a little more.”
Kotak highlighted the importance of the opening hour of day two with the new ball in play and outlined a target range the side could aim for with disciplined batting. “You don’t want to lose wickets in the last 15 minutes before the break. Now, the new-ball is there and the first hour would be crucial. If we bat well maybe we could get to the par-score of 400-plus.”
The immediate focus for India is the start of day two in Colombo, where Kotak expects the team to negotiate the new ball and seek contributions from the lower order to push toward a par total of around 400-plus.