New Delhi: Indian skipper Rohit Sharma came up with a cheeky response when asked about Mumbai all-rounder Tanush Kotian’s selection in India’s squad for the remaining two Tests against Australia in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. Kotian was roped in as a replacement for R Ashwin, who retired from international cricket following the conclusion of the 3rd Test at the Gabba in Brisbane.
Rohit jokingly said the Indian team management decided to pick Kotian as a replacement for Ashwin as Kuldeep Yadav didn’t have a visa. However, the Indian skipper later insisted Kotian’s selection was based on his availability and his recent performances for Mumbai in the domestic circuit. He also said Tanush was familiar with Australian conditions having toured the nation with the India A team.
“Yeah, Tanush was here a month back. Kuldeep, I don’t think has a visa. We wanted somebody to get here as quickly as possible. Tanush was the one who was ready. That’s just a joke. He played here. He is good enough. He has shown what he has done in the last 1–2 years in domestic cricket. And we really wanted a back-up in case we need two spinners playing here or Sydney, you need a back-up option,” Rohit told reporters in the pre-match presser ahead of the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Kotian, an off-spinner and a dependable batter, has been one of Mumbai’s most consistent performers in the domestic circuit over the last couple of years. He played an instrumental role in helping Mumbai win the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 title last season with 502 runs and 29 wickets. Kotian was the Player of the Tournament in the Ranji Trophy last season for his all-round heroics.
Kuldeep not 100% fit, Axar recently had a baby: Rohit
Further speaking about the non-inclusion of the likes of Kuldeep and Axar, Rohit revealed why the duo were not considered for selection. The Indian skipper revealed Kuldeep is not fully fit having recently undergone surgery for a hernia while Axar recently became a father and was not available for selection.
Rohit also praised Kotian for his recent performances for Mumbai and said the all-rounder’s skills and his ability to adapt made him an ideal option for India after losing Ashwin midway through the series.
“Kuldeep, obviously, he is not 100 percent fit, he went through hernia surgery. And the other options like Axar, Axar recently had a baby, he was not going to travel. Tanush was the right option for us. He has certainly shown in the domestic level what he is capable of. He is probably one of the reasons why Mumbai won the Ranji Trophy last year. He played a major role as an all-rounder,” Rohit added.
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma jokingly explained why the Indian team management decided to pick Tanush Kotian as a replacement for R Ashwin over the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. Kotian will join the Indian team in Melbourne ahead of the Boxing Day Test. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
