With just a few hours remaining before the crucial fourth T20 International of the five-match India versus England series, Team India’s bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi addressed the media in a press conference.
Aavishkar Salvi praises Young Spinner Shree Charani
When asked about the team’s new find, young spinner Shree Charani, Bowling Coach Aavishkar Salvi praised her potential. “She is an exciting talent. She has the qualities to be successful at the international level. She is hard-working, has a good mindset, and just needs to be backed,” he said.
Speaking about India’s spin-heavy bowling attack, Salvi acknowledged the strong performances. “All four spinners are bowling really well. They are executing their plans effectively, and that’s what matters in T20Is,” he added.
Managing Injuries and Bench Strength
When asked how the coaching staff manages situations when key players in the playing XI are sidelined due to injuries, the bowling coach explained that the bench strength is prepared well in advance. “The players who are not in the starting XI are trained and readied during pre-tour camps in Bengaluru, based on the team’s plans and the specific skills required. Meanwhile, the injured senior players are undergoing recovery and rehabilitation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence,” he said.
On Kranti Goud and Sayali Satghare’s Chances
With the team currently playing only two medium pacers, Arundhati Reddy and Amanjot Kaur, the coach was asked whether Kranti Goud and Sayali Satghare would be seen in the playing XI soon. In response, Salvi said, “There are still five matches remaining in the tour. Whenever they fit into the playing XI combination, they will definitely get their chance.”
Arundhati Reddy’s Evolution as a Senior Pacer
The senior-most pacer in the current squad is Arundhati Reddy. Speaking about her, Salvi said, “Since her debut, she has been a regular part of the squad. She works on her skills and executes her plans consistently during practice camps, training sessions, and matches whenever she gets the opportunity. Even when she is away from the team, she continues to work on improving and developing her game. She is hard-working and has a brilliant mindset.”
Bowling Group Preparation and Mental Readiness
Speaking about the discussions within the bowling group during the preparatory camp, Salvi shared insights into the mindset of the younger players. “When they came into the camp, the only challenge was whether they would be ready to shoulder the responsibilities that our senior players had taken. And the answer was obviously a yes. They were always hungry to do well. We spent a lot of time after practice in meetings, where we discussed suitable game plans for each of the bowlers. There was a lot of clarity among them,” the coach told reporters.
Learnings from the Third T20I Loss
Reflecting on the learnings from the loss in the third T20I, Salvi said, “After every game, we sit down to analyse and assess the performance. We identify both the positives and the grey areas. Then, in the following practice sessions, we work specifically on those areas that need improvement.”
Versatility Across Formats and Phases
When asked whether the current bowlers are capable of delivering across different phases of the game, Salvi responded confidently. “Arundhati, Amanjot, or whoever is with us right now, they are all capable of delivering across phases, whether it is a T20 game or an ODI. The kind of experience they are gaining at different platforms, like in Sri Lanka and now in England, will add a lot to their kitty. They will probably emerge as senior bowlers in the coming years,” he said.
Focus on the Present Despite World Cup 2025 Looming
When asked about preparations for the upcoming back-to-back World Cups, Salvi explained the team’s approach. “We take each game as per its merit. We approach every match based on the format, plan accordingly, and execute those plans. Yes, there are World Cups coming up, first the ODI and then the T20I, but it is important for us to take one game at a time,” he said.
India Aim for Historic T20I Series Win
The fourth match of the five-match series will be played on July 9, 2025, at Old Trafford Cricket Stadium in Manchester. India currently leads the series 2-1 and will aim to secure a victory in this match to claim their maiden T20I series win against the hosts.
