“We will miss Shreyanka, but Prema is an equally exciting talent” — Avishkar Salvi ahead of South Africa clash - Sports News Portal | Revsportz
With India set to face South Africa in what could be a defining contest in their Women’s T20 World Cup campaign, bowling coach Avishkar Salvi struck a calm but confident note at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday. India have won their first two games, but the loss of off-spinner Shreyanka Patil to injury
Aavishkar Salvi (PC: RevSportz)With India set to face South Africa in what could be a defining contest in their Women’s T20 World Cup campaign, bowling coach Avishkar Salvi struck a calm but confident note at the Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday. India have won their first two games, but the loss of off-spinner Shreyanka Patil to injury has forced a change in plans ahead of a far sterner test. Shreyanka injury blow, but faith in Prema RawatSalvi admitted Shreyanka’s absence was a setback, calling it “an unfortunate incident”, but made it clear that India are backing her replacement Prema Rawat to slot in seamlessly, if required. “We will miss the services of Shreyanka for sure,” he said, before adding that Prema is “an equally exciting talent” who was already in India’s wider World Cup plans. Salvi pointed to her performances in previous opportunities, including the Australia series and the Emerging Asia Cup, and stressed that India’s bowlers are prepared as “all-phase bowlers”, capable of operating at different stages of an innings. He also highlighted the point of difference Prema offers as a leg-spinner. “She brings in different dimensions to the bowling unit altogether,” Salvi said. Lessons from South Africa, eyes on conditionsIndia’s most recent series against South Africa has clearly informed their planning for Saturday’s game. Salvi said those five matches had given the side “a lot” to reflect on, particularly in identifying bowling grey areas that needed addressing in camps and practice sessions. As for the Old Trafford surface, Salvi expected conditions to remain a moving target. With weather in England changing rapidly, he said India would rely on strong basics and adapt accordingly rather than over-commit to reading of the pitch. Harmanpreet’s 200th T20I and her influence on the groupSaturday’s game will also mark Harmanpreet Kaur’s 200th T20I, and Salvi was expansive in his praise of the India captain. He described her as one of the best players he has worked with in terms of work ethic and said her value extends far beyond runs and tactics. According to Salvi, Harmanpreet’s conversations with younger players, about innings, pressure situations and mindset, have become a major resource within the dressing room. He also stressed that India’s hunger has not dipped even after winning the ODI World Cup, saying the group continues to push itself hard in camps and training. Role clarity over fixed batting positionsSalvi also dismissed concerns over India’s middle-order combinations, insisting the side is not obsessed with rigid batting numbers. Instead, he emphasised role clarity and situational awareness. “It is not about the number, it is about the position and the situation,” he said, suggesting that whether it is No. 4, 5 or 6, the expectation is the same, read the game and respond to the demands of the moment. That flexibility, India hope, will be just as important as their bowling depth when they take on a dangerous South African side in Manchester.