NEW DELHI: India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak on Tuesday made it clear that pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is unlikely to be rested for the final Group A fixture against the Netherlands, even though the hosts have already sealed qualification for the Super 8 stage.

Bumrah was instrumental in Sunday’s marquee clash against Pakistan, delivering decisive strikes by removing opener Saim Ayub and captain Salman Ali Agha. His breakthroughs shifted the momentum firmly in India’s favour as Pakistan’s chase unraveled in a crushing 61 run defeat.

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Mindful of his fitness, the BCCI sports science unit has closely monitored Bumrah’s workload through the tournament, giving him rest whenever the team management felt it was required.

"Don't think Bumrah will rest. We will decide later," Kotak said during the pre-match press conference on Thursday.

Abhishek fitness update

Turning to opener Abhishek Sharma, who was hospitalised due to a stomach bug and missed the Namibia match, Kotak sounded positive about his recovery.

Abhishek returned for the Pakistan encounter but fell for a duck. Kotak, however, backed the youngster’s mindset and insisted there was no need for excessive scrutiny, expressing confidence that he would respond strongly.

"He wasn't well. Last game he got out in first over. We don't want to overanalyze. He has his plans sorted," Kotak said when asked if teams have decoded the flamboyant opener's game.

Praise for Kishan

Kotak also reserved special praise for opener Ishan Kishan, highlighting the wicketkeeper batter’s self belief as a major asset.

"He has always been a very confident player since his younger days. That mindset helps in T20 cricket," said Kotak about Kishan, whose composed half century laid the foundation for India’s dominant win over Pakistan.

The coach also underlined that India will not underestimate the Netherlands despite having already progressed.

"From start of this World Cup, we have seen any team can beat any team. That is why every game is important."

(With PTI Inputs)