Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate of the Indian cricket team openly acknowledged that the team’s eagerness to perform well overseas has affected their ability to play spin. His immediate focus is to help them regain their proficiency in playing spin ahead of the upcoming season, which includes five Tests at home. Despite being traditionally strong against spin, India struggled against Sri Lankan spinners in a recent three-match ODI series, losing 27 wickets and the series 0-2.
This defeat marked India’s first bilateral ODI series loss to Sri Lanka in 27 years. Doeschate expressed, “We were outplayed by Sri Lanka. The Indian mindset has been fixated on excelling overseas, neglecting our strength in playing spin, which has been a core attribute of the Indian team.”
“Our focus has shifted to performing well in Australia and England, causing us to lose our edge in playing spin. I am determined to assist in restoring India’s reputation as the best players of spin in the world,” Doeschate added.
India is set to compete against Bangladesh and New Zealand in five Test matches in September and October, facing challenges from quality spin bowlers in the opposition teams.
Doeschate, a former Netherlands all-rounder with extensive coaching experience globally, emphasized that playing spin requires a mental shift rather than significant technical changes.
He elaborated, “Our approach will focus on mindset, situational awareness, and strategies to control different phases of the game. It’s crucial to stimulate creativity, engage in effective debriefing, and maintain strong mental composure.”
The 44-year-old coach, who will be supporting head coach Gautam Gambhir alongside Abhishek Nayar, revealed the team’s aspirations to win the Champions Trophy next year.
Doeschate said, “With only three ODIs left to prepare, transitioning between formats for the Champions Trophy will be a significant challenge. The team is highly motivated to secure a victory in that tournament.”
Another important goal for Team India is qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June next year. Currently leading the WTC table, India aims to solidify their position with the 10 Tests scheduled ahead.
Doeschate emphasized, “We have a great opportunity with 10 Tests remaining to secure our spot in the WTC final. The upcoming series, including five Tests in India and then in Australia, present exciting prospects for the team.”
Despite the timing of his appointment following India’s T20 World Cup victory in June, Doeschate acknowledged the daunting task ahead as the team transitions into the new season.
He expressed, “It’s a challenging time to join a team fresh off a World Cup win. Yet, looking ahead to the next 18 months, as a coach, the upcoming series and challenges are truly exhilarating.”
@Cricbun
