Overview
- India A limited South Africa A to 299 for 9 on day one at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, with off-spinner Tanush Kotian taking four wickets.
- Kotian said net sessions against Mumbai Ranji stalwarts who excel against spin taught him problem areas, field settings and shot-denial plans.
- He credited Ajinkya Rahane and Shardul Thakur for guidance that translated into clearer tactics and better execution in matches.
- Kotian outlined a two-phase plan for the day: attack early on a moist surface, then switch after lunch to tight stump-line bowling to squeeze runs and create chances.
- He highlighted inputs from India A coach Sunil Joshi on plans for South African and Australian batters, framing the performance as preparation for future India opportunities after R Ashwin’s retirement.