India's Cricket Coaching Staff to Split Ahead of Test Series in New Zealand
Coaching Staff Division Post-ODI
In Hamilton, New Zealand, on November 9, it has been reported that India's coaching team will likely divide into two groups following the third ODI against New Zealand on Tuesday. While the specific details are still being finalized, head coach Gautam Gambhir and spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule are expected to travel with the ODI team to Mount Maunganui for the last two matches.
Meanwhile, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak and fast-bowling coach Morne Morkel are anticipated to join the Test squad for a preparatory camp in Wellington ahead of the first Test, which is set to commence on November 19.
Kotak mentioned in a pre-match press conference that while plans could change, Gambhir will remain in New Zealand due to the upcoming one-day World Cup in 2027, and Sairaj is likely to stay as well. He stated, "Me, Morne, and some other staff will go to Wellington. That’s the plan, but like I said, Gautam will make the final decision."
Additionally, Kotak confirmed that three fast bowlers from the ODI squad—Gurnoor Brar, Auqib Nabi, and Arshdeep Singh—will remain in New Zealand to assist the Test team as net bowlers and reserves.
He emphasized that the ODI batters would not carry over Test-match adjustments into white-ball formats, but acknowledged that the challenging pitch conditions in New Zealand would serve as beneficial preparation for the Test series.
When asked about Shubman Gill and KL Rahul's transition from ODIs to Tests, Kotak noted that the mindset for each format would remain distinct. However, he highlighted that the swing, seam movement, and uneven bounce experienced during the ODIs would aid players in adapting to similar challenges in the longer format.
Kotak remarked, "Nobody will bring Test-match adjustments into white-ball cricket. But at the same time, the pitches across both ODIs offered swing, and even after the swing subsided in four to six overs, there was seam movement, along with some awkward bounce."
He also pointed out that the tough conditions, characterized by pitches with 12-14 mm of grass and the current weather, provided valuable learning experiences, especially since the matches did not yield the typical high-scoring ODI totals.
Furthermore, Kotak mentioned that the preparation of India's red-ball players through three India A matches would help them understand the conditions, bowling lengths, and ball behavior.
The Test squad is set to begin a preparatory camp on November 11, which will include five to six practice sessions before the first Test on November 19.
Kotak concluded by stating, "Overall, the preparation has been very solid. On top of that, the Test players will have a camp starting on the 11th, giving us five to six sessions. Fingers crossed, we should be well-prepared for the Test series as well."