 "Arshdeep Singh during a practice session in Dubai. Image: BCCI")
Indian batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has spoken about team selection after India decided not to include fast bowler Arshdeep Singh in their Asia Cup 2025 opener against the UAE. India played the match with just one full-time pacer in Jasprit Bumrah, while Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube played as fast-bowling all-rounders.
Kotak explained that there is no hidden agenda behind such calls and that the playing XI was picked based on conditions. He further added that whatever is best for the team will be decided by the captain and head coach. India played three full-time spinners to complete the bowling lineup.
“Because, the first discussion we have with the head coach and the captain is that obviously, these 15 are like this, everyone deserves to play. If any player is not playing, it will be difficult for him because he will feel missed out. But, at the end of the day, it’s a team sport. So, everyone knows that there is no agenda, there is no personal liking, disliking,” Kotak told reporters.
“Whatever is best for the team, captain and head coach will decide and do that. And I don’t think there is any doubt in anybody’s mind. So, whoever is not playing, they are always trying to help the guys who are playing,” he added.
Kotak on Samson’s batting position
Kotak also spoke about Sanju Samson’s batting role. The wicketkeeper-batter has not batted much at No. 5 or 6 in the past, but Kotak believes he has the talent to perform anywhere in the order. Samson was named in the playing XI against the UAE as middle-order batter-wicketkeeper.
“See, Sanju has not batted a lot at No. 5 or 6. But that doesn’t mean that he can’t do it. So, I think Sanju is a good enough player to bat at any number. So, according to the requirement of the team, captain and head coach will decide. And he is more than happy to bat at any number,” Kotak said.
India are all set to play against Pakistan in their next Asia Cup game on Sunday, September 14. The match will be held at the Dubai International Stadium. India’s playing XI might see a change or two for the highly anticipated match as a pacer may come in place of a spinner.