He Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently named the 26-year-old bowling all-rounder Tanush Kotian as a replacement for Ravichandran Ashwin in the team for the remaining two matches of India’s tour of Australia 2024-25. indian captain Rohit Sharma shed light on Kotian’s selection over more experienced options like Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, after Ashwin’s unexpected retirement, leaving a void in India’s publicity department
Rohit Sharma clarifies decision of casting Tanush Kotian
Rohit said Tanush had been in Australia a month ago for the unofficial Test match between Australia A and India A, played just before the start of the Gavaskar Frontier Trophy 2024-25 and jokingly added that Kuldeep did not have a visa. He added that they needed someone quickly and that Tanush was ready and performed well. However, he acknowledged that Tanush has consistently performed well over the past two years and was brought in as a backup in case two spinners play in Sydney or Melbourne.
“Tanush was here a month ago and Kuldeep doesn’t have a visa. We needed someone to get here as quickly as possible. Tanush was prepared and played well here. But all jokes aside, he has done well over the last two years and we wanted a backup in case we play two spinners in Sydney or Melbourne.“Rohit said at the press conference.
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Tanush’s selection over Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel
Rohit also mentioned that Kuldeep is not fully fit after undergoing hernia surgery and Axar was unable to travel due to recently having a baby. Therefore, Tanush was the best option, and his performance was probably a key factor in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy victory last season.
“Kuldeep is not 100 per cent fit as he underwent a hernia surgery. Axar recently had a baby so she was not going to travel. Therefore, Tanush was the best option for us and was probably one of the reasons why Mumbai won the Ranji trophy last season.”added the Indian captain.
Tanush’s impressive national cricket record
Tanush’s inclusion in the team is due to his consistent performances in domestic cricket. In his 33 First Class matches, Tanish has taken 101 wickets, including three five-wicket hauls. His bowling skills have made him a standout player, particularly in the longer format. Tanush’s abilities are well regarded and his selection highlights the faith the selectors have in his ability to perform on the international stage.
Apart from bowling, Tanush is also known for his batting prowess. Throughout his 33 First Division matches, he has accumulated 1,525 runs, including two centuries. This versatile ability makes him a valuable asset to the team, adding depth to India’s spin options.