New Delhi, March 11 – India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak credited the team's culture and unwavering belief in Abhishek Sharma's potential for their successful 2026 Men's T20 World Cup campaign, despite a challenging start.
Abhishek, the top-ranked T20I batter, struggled initially, scoring just one fifty and three ducks before shining in the final against New Zealand.
"Abhishek is a mentally tough player. Even when things weren't going well, he remained positive. He had a difficult start due to a stomach infection, but he eventually came good," Kotak said.
Kotak also emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive environment for Abhishek, despite his struggles. "We all believed in him and encouraged him to keep trying," he added.
Kotak also praised wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan for his successful return to the national team after a two-year hiatus. Kishan scored 317 runs and became India's second-highest run-scorer in the tournament.
Kotak also highlighted the maturity that Ishan had developed, along with the importance of having players like Abhishek and Ishan in the team.
"I've seen Ishan play some good innings in domestic matches, and I believe in his ability to perform under pressure," Kotak said.
Kotak also praised the collective selflessness of the batting group, citing captain Suryakumar Yadav's willingness to push Shivam Dube ahead of himself in the semi-final against England.
"Sacrifice and a team-first attitude are essential for a world champion team," Kotak said.
Kotak also reserved high praise for Shivam Dube, who amassed 235 runs in nine matches at an average of 39.16 and an impressive strike rate of 169.06.