Kotak praises Samson and Abhishek's fearless mindset
Kotak defended the selection of Samson and Abhishek despite social media pressure to include Sooryavanshi, praising their mental control and fearless approach.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak praised openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma for their fearless attitude and mental control ahead of the second T20I against New Zealand. Kotak said the team management deserves credit for sticking with the duo despite social media calls for 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to replace them. Samson scored 67 off 33 balls in India's four-wicket win in the series opener, while Abhishek contributed in the powerplay.
Kotak defended the selection decisions and said social media should appreciate that team management calls are made for the team's benefit. He noted that Samson is an outstanding power-packed player who overcomes the pressure of needing to hit big shots early in the innings. Kotak added that both openers possess power, talent, intent and the ability to control their minds under pressure.
The coach also backed all-rounder Naman Dhir as a promising option for the 2028 T20 World Cup. Sooryavanshi is expected to play on Saturday after Ishan Kishan was ruled out with an injury. Kotak said the 15-year-old is mature and understands why he is not playing regularly.
CricHubb Take
The decision to persist with Samson and Abhishek over a hyped youngster shows a team willing to back form rather than noise. This approach may become the template for how India handle other young talents who generate social media pressure before they are ready for regular selection.