Friday, 17 July 2026 MUMBAI EDITION LIVE

Rohit Sharma Backed By Batting Coach Amid Lean Run

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak defends Rohit Sharma, says he's too good to feel pressure.

Mumbai Alert · Sports Desk
Mumbai Alert · Sports Desk
Sports Desk · Mumbai Alert News · Fri, 17 July 2026 at 09:51 am
Rohit Sharma Backed By Batting Coach Amid Lean Run

India's batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has come to the defense of captain Rohit Sharma, who has been facing a lean run in the ongoing ODI series against England. Kotak stated that Rohit is too experienced and accomplished to feel pressured, and that the challenging playing conditions have affected many batters.

Rohit's performance in the series has been under scrutiny, with the opener scoring 11 in the series opener and 26 off 43 balls in the second ODI at Cardiff. However, Kotak believes that Rohit's slow start is not a cause for concern, citing the difficult pitch conditions. He also pointed out that many batters have struggled to find their rhythm, and that it's not uncommon for players to have off days.

Kotak expressed confidence that Rohit will bounce back, saying that he might see a completely different innings from the captain at Lord's. He also dismissed claims that Rohit is struggling, stating that the word 'struggling' is not applicable to a player of Rohit's caliber. Instead, Kotak attributed Rohit's slow start to the fact that he didn't get balls in his areas, making it difficult for him to get going.

The batting coach also addressed rumors of a rift between Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir, stating that there is no need for a bridge between the two. Kotak revealed that Kohli and Gambhir have spoken multiple times, and that there is no issue between them.

India's batting performance has been a concern in the series, with the team suffering a dramatic collapse in the second ODI. After being well-placed at 178/3, India lost their last seven wickets for just 55 runs, being bowled out for 233 in 44 overs. England chased down the modest target of 234, with Joe Root scoring an unbeaten 99.

Despite the setbacks, Kotak remains optimistic about India's chances, and believes that Rohit will lead the team to a strong performance in the decider at Lord's. With the series on the line, India will be looking to bounce back and level the series, and Rohit's form will be crucial to their chances.

The ODI series has been closely contested, with both teams having their moments. However, India's batting has been inconsistent, and the team will need to address this issue if they are to succeed. With Kotak's backing, Rohit will be looking to silence his critics and lead India to a series-levelling win at Lord's.

In the context of the series, India's performance has been patchy, with the team struggling to find consistency. However, with players like Rohit and Kohli in the team, India has the talent and experience to turn things around. The decider at Lord's promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams looking to give it their all.

For Indian cricket fans, the series has been a rollercoaster ride, with moments of brilliance followed by periods of struggle. However, with the team's experienced players like Rohit and Kohli, there is always hope for a turnaround. As the series heads to its conclusion, fans will be eagerly waiting to see how India performs, and whether Rohit can lead the team to a series-levelling win.

In conclusion, Rohit Sharma's lean run has been a concern for India, but batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has backed the captain to bounce back. With the series on the line, India will be looking to Rohit to lead the team to a strong performance at Lord's. The outcome of the series will have significant implications for Indian cricket, and fans will be eagerly waiting to see how the team performs.

The significance of this series extends beyond the immediate outcome, as it will have a bearing on India's preparations for future tournaments. The team's performance will be closely watched, and the players will be looking to make a statement. As the cricketing world watches, India will be looking to prove their mettle and emerge victorious in the series decider.

Ultimately, the series decider at Lord's promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams looking to give it their all. With Rohit Sharma at the helm, India will be looking to bounce back and level the series, and the outcome will have significant implications for Indian cricket. As the team takes to the field, fans will be eagerly waiting to see how they perform, and whether Rohit can lead the team to a series-levelling win.

X Facebook Telegram
Read the original report ↗

More in Sports

Sports

NEET UG Re-Exam Topped By Panshul Bansal

Panshul Bansal, a student from Faridabad, has secured the All India Rank 1 in the NEET UG 2026 re-examination. He scored 715 out of 720 marks.

By Mumbai Alert · Sports Desk · 53 min ago

Sports

Rohit Sharma's Parents Arrive in London Amid Retirement Speculation

Rohit Sharma's parents reach London, sparking rumors of his ODI retirement. India faces England in the 3rd ODI on July 19.

By Mumbai Alert · Sports Desk · 1 hr ago

Sports

Kohli-Gambhir Rift: Coach Dismisses Need For Intervention

India coach downplays rift, Kohli and Gambhir spotted apart. Tension before ODI match.

By Mumbai Alert · Sports Desk · 2 hr ago

Sports

France Team Bids Emotional Farewell To Boston Hotel Staff

France shares heartfelt moment with hotel staff, clicks pictures before leaving for England match.

By Mumbai Alert · Sports Desk · 2 hr ago