'Does not make sense': India coach drops verdict on Abhishek Sharma's poor form
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 26, 2026
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India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has expressed confidence in opener Abhishek Sharma and number three Tilak Varma ahead of the crucial T20 World Cup match against Zimbabwe. Despite India’s recent 76-run defeat to South Africa, Kotak remains optimistic about both players’ ability to turn things around. Abhishek, currently under pressure after failing to convert starts in consecutive matches, showed glimpses of his form during the nets and has been a consistent performer in past tournaments. Kotak emphasized that overpressuring players is counterproductive and urged fans and critics not to lose faith in Sharma’s abilities.
India’s campaign has been hampered by their inability to capitalize on strong starts, particularly against off-spinners, which has led to inconsistent performances. While Abhishek’s struggles have been more visible, Tilak Varma’s lower strike rate and average have also raised questions. However, Kotak defended the team’s approach in recent matches, highlighting the importance of partnerships and situational batting. He noted that Varma’s 25 runs against Pakistan in Colombo was a result of challenging conditions and spin, not a lack of intent.
Kotak’s comments come as India prepares for a must-win match against Zimbabwe to keep their World Cup hopes alive. The coach stressed the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and allowing players to build momentum. He pointed out that both Abhishek and Tilak have shown the ability to score heavily in short formats, with Sharma averaging over 80 in recent matches. While there are no guarantees in high-stakes sports, Kotak’s confidence in his charges signals a belief that India can bounce back.
For readers following cricket globally, this situation highlights the challenges of maintaining consistency under pressure and the role of mental resilience in elite sport. With India needing a strong performance to stay competitive in the tournament, the coach’s supportive tone underscores the importance of team dynamics and belief systems. The upcoming match will be a litmus test for both players and their ability to deliver when it matters most.
In summary, while Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma face scrutiny, India’s batting coach remains steadfast in his support, trusting that their past performances and skill sets will shine through. The stakes are high, but Kotak’s optimistic outlook offers hope for a turnaround in India’s campaign.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/26/2026