The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently called the 26-year-old professional football player Tanush Kotian instead of Ravichandran Ashwin in the remaining two matches of India's tour of Australia 2024-25. Indian captain Rohit Sharma highlighting the selection of Kotian for many options such as Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel, Ashwin's unexpected retirement, leaving a void in the spin department for India
Rohit Sharma explains the decision to cast Tanush Kotian
Rohit said Tanush was in Australia a month ago for an unofficial match between Australia A and India A, which was played after the start of the season. Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 and jokingly added that Kuldeep did not have a visa. They said they needed someone urgently, and Tanush was ready and doing well. However, he admitted that Tanush has been doing well in the last two years and was brought in as a backup in case he plays two spinners in Sydney or Melbourne.
“Tanush was here last month and Kuldeep does not have a visa. We needed someone to come here as soon as possible. Tanush was ready and played well here. But jokes aside, he has been doing well in the last two years and we wanted to get back if we could play two spinners in Sydney or Melbourne.“Rohit said in a press conference.
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Selection of Tanush over Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel
Rohit also said that Kuldeep is unwell after a hernia operation, and Axar would not be able to travel due to having a baby soon. So, Tanush is the best option, and his performance probably contributed to Mumbai's success in the Ranji Trophy last season.
“Kuldeep is not 100 percent fit as he underwent hernia surgery. Axar recently had a baby so he couldn't go. So, Tanush was a great option for us and was probably one of the reasons why Mumbai won the Ranji tournament last season.,” the Indian military commander added.
Tanush's impressive cricket history
Tanush's inclusion in the squad is due to his consistent performance in domestic cricket. In his 33 First-Class matches, Tanish has taken 101 wickets, including three three-wicket hauls. His bowling skills made him a very good player, especially in long shots. Tanush's off-spin skills are well-regarded, and his selection reflects the faith the selectors have in his ability to play the international game.
Apart from his misses, Tanush is also known for his batting skills. In the course of his 33 First-Class matches, he scored 1525 runs, including two centuries. This all-round ability makes him a valuable addition to the team, adding depth to India's options.