Thu Jan 16 22:46:17 UTC 2025: ## Experienced Batting Coach Joins Indian Cricket Team Ahead of England Series

**Mumbai, Jan 19** – India’s beleaguered cricket team has appointed Sitanshu Kotak as its new batting coach for the upcoming T20I series against England, starting January 22nd. The appointment comes amidst criticism of the team’s recent performance under head coach Gautam Gambhir, particularly their 1-3 loss to Australia.

Kotak, a former Saurashtra player with a wealth of experience at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), brings much-needed technical expertise to a support staff previously lacking in batting specialists. His appointment follows concerns raised by batting legend Sunil Gavaskar about the team’s lack of technical improvement and the need for focused coaching beyond simple throwdowns.

Gambhir, whose role is more strategic, has assembled a largely new support staff since taking over last July. This includes bowling coach Morne Morkel and assistant coaches Abhishek Nayar and Ryan ten Doeschate. Only T Dilip remains from the previous coaching team under Rahul Dravid.

While Kotak’s role is currently for the T20I series, his long-term future with the team, including participation in the crucial five-match Test series against England in June, remains unclear. The upcoming England Lions tour and Ranji Trophy matches will provide opportunities for players to showcase their form ahead of the major Test series. The team’s schedule is packed with white-ball matches, including an ODI series and the Champions Trophy, before the IPL concludes in May. Players from non-playoff teams will then begin acclimatization for the England tour early.

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