Having already secured a semifinal spot, India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, indicated possible adjustments to the bowling lineup for their final group stage match against New Zealand on Sunday. However, Doeschate clarified that team balance remains a priority as they aim to conclude the group phase undefeated and in first place. New Zealand has also qualified for the semifinals, making Sunday’s game a decider for the top spot in Group A.
‘We’ve had two intense training sessions to prepare. Regarding our squad depth, our main focus is ensuring our key players are fit and ready for the semifinal on March 4,’ Doeschate informed reporters.
‘To strike a balance, we might consider rotating our bowlers a bit. Winning against New Zealand is still our goal.
Maintaining momentum and securing the top group position are crucial. These factors will influence our selection considerations,’ he added.
Addressing concerns about captain Rohit Sharma’s fitness after a scare in the Pakistan match, he reassured, ‘He is fine. His batting performance shows improvement. It’s a recurring injury, so he manages it effectively.’ Doeschate also speculated that the match could turn into a spin contest between both teams.
‘New Zealand also has four spinners, so spin could dominate. Surprisingly, we didn’t anticipate such a heavy reliance on spin at the start of the tournament.
Our bowlers have performed well, and the pitch has offered some assistance. We expect a similar scenario for the next game tomorrow.’ About wicket-keeping choices with Rishabh Pant on the bench while KL Rahul plays, he commented, ‘It’s tough for Rishabh to be sidelined, but that’s elite sport.
KL has been excellent despite limited opportunities. We need to keep Rishabh match-ready as we might need him at any point. Having two top-tier keepers is a good problem to have.’ On the pitch conditions affecting scoring, he noted, ‘I wouldn’t say it’s difficult, but we’re used to aiming for 320 runs effortlessly. Reaching 320 has been challenging.
The pitch conditions have varied slightly in the two games here. A score around 280-290 is achievable with good batting. It’s different from places like Pakistan where 320-330 is expected.
Adaptation is key to setting a competitive score on these pitches. We estimate around 280-290 is a good target based on the first two matches.’ The Indian assistant coach expressed satisfaction with the rest players have had since the Pakistan game on February 23rd.
‘They’ve had ample rest. The challenge is managing back-to-back games. If our seamers are to bowl their full ten overs, especially if we bowl second in the first game and then bowl first again within 36 hours, it’s a significant workload.
That’s why rotating bowlers is an option, if the game situation allows. We’re prepared to manage this in the field and ensure players are as fresh as possible for both the semifinal and potentially the final,’ he concluded.
