India coach Kotak says one warm-up is enough

India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak dismissed calls for more warm-up games after his team’s dominant performance in the one-off fixture against England Lions, calling the single outing “more than enough” to prepare for the Test series.

The match in Bengaluru ended inside two days with India’s top order firing and bowlers exploiting a turning track. Devdutt Padikkal struck an unbeaten 142, his first big score since returning from injury, while fast bowler Umran Malik claimed four wickets on debut to underline the depth in the attack. Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal also showed his class with three wickets, easing concerns over India’s spin options at home.

The game mattered because India’s last home series against Australia showed how quickly momentum can swing on turning pitches. Kohli’s men need early clarity on batting order and strike rates, and the Lions game gave them data without the risk of overplaying. The surface turned sharply on day two, which helped spinners and quicks alike—a perfect test ahead of the two-match series against England starting next month.

Kotak’s comment about practice days signals confidence but also pressure. If India win the series, the call will look smart; if they struggle, critics will ask why more time wasn’t spent. Either way, the squad now knows who can handle pressure on turning tracks and who needs extra work in the nets. The next step is to keep the same balance of aggression and patience when the real Tests begin.